Former DPD Police Chief James Craig Launches Mayoral Bid from Detroit Barbershop  

The barbershop is a sacred space in Black communities. It’s where brothers gather to decompress, sharpen their fades, and speak their truth without pretense. It’s a place of unfiltered dialogue, a sanctuary where the outside world’s expectations can be left at the door. So, when former Detroit Police Chief James Craig decided to announce his run for mayor from Executive Cuts, a barbershop near the Detroit Riverwalk, the choice wasn’t just symbolic—it was strategic.  “Hollywood Craig is back,” he said, acknowledging a nickname often used to critique his media presence. It was a joke, but the campaign launch was not. Craig wants to lead Detroit, and he’s making it clear that his tenure as chief was only the beginning.  “I’m not running for mayor because I want to be in charge, I’m running because I want to serve you,” Craig said. “As your former chief, I made a commitment to protect and uplift this city. Now I want to continue that commitment as your mayor.”  Detroit’s mayoral elections are non-partisan, but Craig has not distanced himself from his Republican affiliation or his past support of Donald Trump. Standing firm, he framed his political identity as a strength, suggesting his ties...