Solomon Kinloch Jr.
Solomon W. Kinloch Jr. (born July 28, 1973) is an American pastor and political figure. He is the senior pastor of Triumph Church, a non-denominational megachurch based in Detroit, Michigan. He is currently a candidate in the 2025 Detroit mayoral election.[1]
Early life and education
Kinloch was born in Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Northwestern High School (Michigan) in 1991 and later pursued theological studies at American Baptist College previously known as American Baptist Theological Seminary.[2]
His brother, Jonathan C. Kinloch, serves as a Wayne County Commissioner and is Chair of the 13th Congressional District Democratic Party.[2]
Ministry at Triumph Church
In 1998, at the age of 24, Kinloch became the senior pastor of Triumph Church, which had a membership of approximately 44 at the time. Under his leadership, the church experienced significant growth, expanding to multiple campuses across the Detroit metropolitan area and reportedly reaching over 40,000 members.[2]
In 2018, Kinloch was named one of the Michiganians of the Year by The Detroit News for his leadership and service to the community.[3]
Political career
On February 19, 2025, Kinloch formally announced his candidacy for mayor of Detroit during a campaign kickoff event at the historic Fox Theatre, attended by approximately 5,000 people.[1]
His campaign platform includes plans to:
- Build 10,000 affordable housing units
- Establish ten new grocery stores to address food deserts
- Create a training center for in-demand jobs paying $35 per hour
Kinloch has stated that he intends to continue his pastoral duties if elected mayor.[4]
In May 2025, Kinloch received a significant endorsement from the United Auto Workers (UAW), the largest union in Michigan.[5]
Other affiliations and recognition
Kinloch currently serves on several civic and nonprofit boards, including:
Personal life
Kinloch is married to Robin Kemp Kinloch, and they have one son, Kadin Kinloch.[8]
References
- ^ a b Thompson, Bankole (February 23, 2025). "Kinloch as mayoral candidate changes Detroit's political landscape". The Detroit News. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ a b c Barrett, Malachi (February 19, 2025). "Pastor Solomon Kinloch announces 2025 bid for Detroit mayor". BridgeDetroit. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ "Solomon Kinloch Jr. - Michiganian of the Year 2018". The Detroit News. June 21, 2018. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ Barrett, Malachi (February 26, 2025). "Why Solomon Kinloch is running for Detroit mayor in 2025". BridgeDetroit. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ Carr, Brandon (May 16, 2025). "Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. secures major endorsement from UAW in Detroit mayor's race". WDIV ClickOnDetroit. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ "Pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr". Skillman Foundation. 20 November 2020. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ "Board of Directors". Black Male Educators Alliance. Retrieved May 18, 2025.
- ^ "Rev. Solomon Kinloch announces candidacy for mayor of Detroit". The Detroit News. Retrieved May 18, 2025.