Eric Mays Net Worth in 2025: From Millionaire to Bankruptcy

Who is Eric Mays?

Eric Mays is a well-known American businessman and politician who gained recognition for his investment ventures and political career. He served as the First Ward Councilman and Council President of Flint, Michigan, and even ran for the Michigan State House of Representatives in 2014. Mays was once a prominent figure in business and politics, accumulating an estimated net worth of $100 million. However, due to legal troubles and financial setbacks, his fortune took a drastic downturn, leading to his bankruptcy.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 16, 1958, in Flint, Michigan, Eric Mays grew up in a middle-class Christian family. He attended local schools in Michigan before pursuing higher education at Michigan University. His passion for business and politics emerged early in his life, shaping his career in the years to come.

Eric Mays’ Financial Journey

Mays built his wealth primarily through investments and entrepreneurship. He made significant investments in real estate and the tech industry, solidifying his position as a successful businessman. His business acumen allowed him to accumulate assets across multiple cities and maintain a luxurious lifestyle.

Beyond business, Mays was also active in philanthropy, donating to various charitable organizations. His generosity and influence made him a respected figure in both the business and political realms.

Rise and Fall of Eric Mays Net Worth

At his peak, Eric Mays had an estimated net worth of around $100 million, with Forbes and other financial publications recognizing his success. However, his financial empire crumbled due to a series of legal issues, political controversies, and financial mismanagement.

As of Mar 8, 2025, the average annual pay for an Eric Mays in the United States is $55,474 a year.

Political Career and Controversies

Mays officially entered politics in 2013 when he was elected to the Flint City Council after a tightly contested race against Anita Brown. He served on the council for four years and later pursued a mayoral campaign in 2025.

Despite his political ambitions, Mays was frequently embroiled in controversies. One of the most notable incidents occurred during a public meeting when he made a Nazi salute toward the city council leader and compared them to Adolf Hitler. This act resulted in his removal from his positions as finance committee chair and council vice president.

Adding to his troubles, Mays was involved in a physical altercation with the Deputy Chief of Staff of Flint’s mayor, which led to a police investigation. In 2023, he was convicted of disorderly conduct, facing potential jail time and fines.

Legal and Financial Struggles

Mays’ legal troubles didn’t end with his political controversies. In 2021, he was ordered to pay $35,000 in city legal fees due to an unsuccessful federal lawsuit against Mayor Sheldon Neeley and others at City Hall. His legal battles drained his finances, eventually leading to bankruptcy.

In an attempt to mitigate his financial struggles, Mays launched a GoFundMe campaign and managed to raise over $19,000 from supporters. Despite his challenges, he continues to engage with his community and expresses his commitment to public service.

Where is Eric Mays Now?

Currently, Eric Mays resides in Flint, Michigan. Though his financial status has declined, he remains involved in local affairs and continues to advocate for the people of Flint.

Lessons from Eric Mays’ Journey

Eric Mays’ story serves as a cautionary tale of how rapid financial success can be followed by a sudden downfall. While he built a fortune through business and investments, political controversies and legal issues led to his financial collapse.

Despite his hardships, Mays remains a prominent figure known for his philanthropy and leadership. His journey underscores the importance of financial management, legal awareness, and ethical leadership in both business and politics.

Conclusion

Eric Mays’ rise and fall highlight the unpredictable nature of financial and political success. Once a multimillionaire businessman and influential politician, he now faces bankruptcy and legal battles. While his story may serve as a lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs and politicians, it also showcases his resilience and commitment to public service, even in the face of adversity.