Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Regional Chamber has expressed its satisfaction with the successful conduct of the 2024 general elections. The organization emphasized the importance of a strong democracy and civil society for economic growth, noting that free enterprise thrives in an environment where citizens are well-informed and engaged.

The Chamber highlighted the efficiency of the election tabulations, attributing this to reforms approved by voters in 2018 and 2022. These reforms included early voting and no-reason absentee voting, along with legislatively passed pre-processing laws that helped streamline the counting process.

Acknowledgment was given to Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and her team at the Michigan Department of State for ensuring a peaceful, secure, fair, safe, and accessible election. The efforts of local clerks, election workers, and volunteers were also recognized as crucial to upholding these processes.

As the counting and certification process continues, the Chamber encourages patience and respect for the procedures that safeguard election integrity.

In terms of electoral outcomes, the Detroit Regional Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC) reported a 93% success rate for candidates it endorsed in the general election. This high success rate reflects their rigorous endorsement process aimed at promoting business-friendly leaders in Michigan.

Notably, the Chamber PAC did not endorse any candidate in the U.S. Senate race between Elissa Slotkin and Mike Rogers. Sandy K. Baruah, President and CEO of the Chamber, remarked on this decision: “Unlike some campaigns where voters are confronted with only unsatisfactory options, the race between Elissa Slotkin and Mike Rogers represents something rare – two exceptionally strong candidates who would serve Michigan well.” Ultimately, Rep. Elissa Slotkin emerged victorious in this tight race.

The Chamber PAC extended congratulations to several representatives on their victories: Reps. Bergman, Moolenaar, Scholten, Huizenga, Walberg, Dingell, McClain, Stevens, Tlaib, and Thanedar. Regardless of endorsement status by the PAC or not, there is anticipation for continued public service collaboration on issues affecting both business communities and constituents.

In specific congressional districts:

- For Michigan's 7th Congressional District: "While the Chamber PAC expressed a different preference than voters of the 7th District," Congressman-elect Tom Barrett’s service record as a veteran will benefit his role.

- In Michigan's 8th Congressional District: Congresswoman-elect Kristen McDonald Rivet’s background in public policy is expected to be advantageous as she addresses barriers hindering talent pipeline potential.

- For Michigan's 10th Congressional District: Congressman John James returns for a second term with leadership qualities vital for Southeast Michigan's prosperity.

Post-election resources remain available from the Chamber as it maintains its commitment to democracy and bipartisanship aimed at building a stronger Michigan. Business leaders are encouraged to share factual post-election information during ongoing certification processes.