DETROIT, Jan. 27, 2025 — The Detroit Police Officers Association (DPOA), the Detroit Police Lieutenants & Sergeants Association (DPLSA) and the Detroit Fire Fighters Association (DFFA), have officially endorsed Mike Duggan for Governor of Michigan, citing his commitment to public safety and proven track record of supporting Detroit’s law enforcement and firefighter communities. This announcement marks a milestone for both organizations in a historic move endorsing an Independent for governor.
“Michigan’s next governor has to prioritize the safety of first responders and our communities. Detroit is proof you can do both successfully and serves as an example of what can be done across Michigan,” said DPOA President Craig Miller. “Duggan’s leadership as mayor has been transformative for Detroit, driving down crime and improving the quality of life for residents. We believe his vision and dedication make him the right choice to lead Michigan as governor.”
DPOA, DPLSA and DFFA collectively represent nearly 4,000 active-duty men and women in Detroit, advocating for the needs and interests of their members and working to ensure the safety and security of the community.
“The men and women of the Detroit Fire Department dedicate their lives to protecting the citizens of Detroit. Under Mayor Mike Duggan’s leadership, we’ve seen historic improvements for our firefighters and EMS teams that have significantly enhanced the safety of our communities,” said DFFA President Thomas M. Gehart. “Through genuine collaboration, we’ve made Detroit safer, and we are confident that Duggan’s dedication to working together will pave the way for stronger, more unified communities across Michigan”
“Mike Duggan has done so much for our city, from strengthening public safety to guiding us through the toughest times. During bankruptcy, we couldn’t see a bright future for Detroit or our members, but today, there’s hope—and Mike Duggan was at the helm of that transformation,”
said DPLSA President Mark Young. “If he could do this for the working men and women of the Detroit Police Department, imagine what he could accomplish for the entire state of Michigan.”
During his three terms as Detroit’s mayor, Duggan prioritized public safety, securing a $10,000 raise for police officers, adding 300 to the force and funding community programs to reduce violence. These efforts have helped cut shootings and carjackings by over 40%, with Detroit seeing its fewest homicides since 1966. For firefighters, Duggan negotiated a landmark five-year contract with raises, reduced workweeks and a combined Fire and EMS Division, enabling 1,200 firefighters across 47 fire companies and 25 medical transport units to enhance emergency response. Duggan’s leadership has strengthened safety and provided first responders with critical resources to serve Detroit effectively.
“An elected leader’s most important priority always must be the safety of their residents,” Duggan said. “The strong and early endorsement of Detroit’s 4,000 police officers, firefighters, and EMTs is a powerful statement. After 11 years working together, the first responders who know me best are telling everyone in Michigan they trust me to protect our state. I am deeply honored by this endorsement.”
Duggan, DFFA, DPLSA and DPOA announced the endorsement today at a press conference at the DFFA headquarters surrounded by members and supporters.
