Minneapolis mayoral candidate pauses campaign after death of his mother
Reverend DeWayne Davis says he is temporarily suspending his campaign to become the next mayor of Minneapolis following the death of his mother.
In a post on his campaign's social media accounts, Davis says over the weekend, his mother passed away at the age of 97.
"I have supported and ministered to many people who have lost loved ones,' he writes, "but nothing can prepare you for being at the center of that grief. My mother was a gift to the world and I will miss her dearly."
Davis says he is pressing pause on his campaign to allow time for the grieving process and to make sure his family's affairs are in order. He also thanked those who have supported or donated to his campaign.
"There may be a time for conversations about whether and how to continue, but now is not that time," he continues.
Davis currently serves as the lead minister of Plymouth Congregational Church of Minneapolis. He previously worked as a lobbyist and was elected as chaplain of the Minnesota Senate in 2023, becoming the first Black, gay person in the state to serve in the role.
Should Davis ultimately decide not to resume his campaign to challenge Mayor Jacob Frey, he would be the second high-profile opponent to drop out. In April, current Ward 11 city council member Emily Koski announced the end of her campaign.
This story was originally reported by Bring Me The News on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
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