Flint mayor to face challenger in 2026 primary election

FLINT, Mich. — Flint’s mayor will face at least one challenger in his re-election bid as the filing deadline draws closer.

Current Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley will face Micaiah “Mic” Owens in the Aug. 4, 2026 primary election. As of April 20, they are the only candidates listed currently on Genesee County’s unofficial ballot list.

Owens, an attorney and former carpenter, aims to “build back Flint” as mayor by focusing on jobs, safety, beautification and teamwork, according to his “Mic for Flint Mayor” Facebook page. 

The deadline to file completed nominating petitions is 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 21, 2026. Late filings will not be accepted, county officials said in a press release. Candidates running for mayor must submit petitions signed by at least 600 registered voters in Flint.

Neeley was elected as Flint’s 95th mayor in November 2019, winning re-election in 2022. He has cited his administration’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, expansion of blight removal efforts and reforms aimed at promoting equity and public trust as key accomplishments, according to the city website.

The terms of office for the mayor and city council members elected in the 2026 election will run from November 2026 through November 2030.