Daniel Mahoney Shares His Plans to Step Down
Mayor Daniel Mahoney has announced that he will not seek another term as the mayor of Jackson, Michigan. His decision marks the closing of a historic chapter as the city’s first Black mayor. Mahoney shared the news during a city council meeting, saying he wants to put his family first.
“It would take a direct message from God to convince me to run for elected office in this next year because I am choosing to put my family first,” Mahoney said near the end of the meeting.
His term will end late next year. Mahoney has 413 more days to serve as mayor before officially stepping away from public office.
A Leader Who Inspired His Community
Mahoney first won the mayoral seat in 2021 and earned reelection in 2023. His leadership has been rooted in community work and equity. He has consistently shown a commitment to the people of Jackson through both action and advocacy.
Throughout his time in office, Mahoney served on the city’s Racial Equity Commission and the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority. He also worked to strengthen local connections, bringing residents together around shared goals for growth and inclusion.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the job that I am doing,” he said. “It is not for not appreciating the work.”
A Lifelong Connection to Jackson
Mahoney’s bond with Jackson runs deep. Born and raised in the city, he graduated from Jackson High School in 2000. Outside of his mayoral role, he serves as the African American Affinity Liaison for Jackson College and runs the nonprofit Many Hands Community Services.
His work reflects a long-standing commitment to uplifting others and creating opportunities. His leadership has gone beyond politics, focusing on building bridges and creating a lasting impact in his hometown.
“This is thankless work and if you don’t absolutely love it, you sure ain’t doing it for the money ‘cause trust me, it ain’t done,” Mahoney said. “Consider this my farewell tour.”
A Legacy That Will Shape the Future
Although he is stepping away from the mayor’s office, Mahoney’s influence will continue to shape Jackson. As the city’s first Black mayor, his time in office opened doors for future generations of leaders.
His decision to step down is not about loss but about legacy. By prioritizing family, he also shows what it means to lead with both strength and heart. His work on equity, education, and community development has left a mark that will continue well after his tenure.
Mahoney’s farewell marks the end of one era and the beginning of another for Jackson—a city forever changed by his leadership.
