Advocacy News – Nov. 4, 2026
The 2026 election brought sweeping changes to Michigan’s political landscape, with Democrats winning statewide races and securing control of both chambers of the Legislature. The results set the stage for a consequential 2027 legislative session and significant decisions affecting Michigan employers.
What happened: Michigan voters delivered major Democratic victories across state and federal races.
- Statewide offices: Jocelyn Benson was elected governor, Eli Savit attorney general and Garlin Gilchrist secretary of state.
- State Legislature: Democrats regained control of the House and expanded their Senate majority, securing a governing trifecta in Lansing.
- Democrats expanded their State Senate majority from 20-18 to 23-15, flipping two Republican-held seats and winning an open seat.
- Democrats regained control of the State House, growing from a 52-58 minority to a 63-47 majority, flipping 10 Republican-held districts and gaining 11 seats overall.
- Courts: Democrats maintained their 6-1 majority on the Michigan Supreme Court.
- Congress: Democrats picked up the open U.S. Senate with Abdul El-Sayed over Mike Rogers, in one of the coutry’s most-watched and expensive races. They also made notable gains in several U.S. House races.
- Ballot proposals: Voters overwhelmingly rejected Proposal 1, which would have triggered a constitutional convention, while approving by wide margins Proposal 2, establishing new campaign finance restrictions and disclosure requirements affecting regulated utilities, certain government contractors and related parties.
Why it matters: With one party controlling the governor’s office and Legislature, Michigan enters 2027 with a significantly different governing landscape. That creates greater opportunity to advance legislation, including proposals with potentially substantial implications for employers.
Issues to watch: While legislative priorities are still taking shape, lists are starting to emerge that spell out a possible legislative agenda in the coming legislative session, including:
- Paid family leave and expanded local labor standards
- Graduated income tax and corporate tax increases
- Additional restrictions on independent contractor classifications, noncompete agreements and pay transparency
- Environmental regulations, including ‘Polluter Pay’ proposals
- New restrictions on corporate political and issue advocacy
What we’re saying: The Michigan Chamber has a proven track record of working across party lines, including under Democratic leadership and divided government.
- Strong communities and a strong economy go hand in hand. Employers are foundational to both, and their perspectives must be part of the decisions ahead. We’ll continue building relationships, advancing practical solutions that support job providers and advocating for policies that help Michigan compete, attract investment and create opportunity.
🔗Read the Michigan Chamber’s full statement on the Nov. 3 election results.
What’s next: Your voice matters more than ever. As Michigan prepares for a new administration and legislative session, employer input will be critical to shaping the Chamber’s 2027 priorities and informing policymakers about the real-world impact of proposed policies.
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- Take our post-election employer survey. Tell us what matters most to your business and what Michigan’s new leaders should prioritize.
- Get involved in a Policy Advisory Committee. Help shape the Chamber’s positions on emerging issues through our Health, Human Resources & Talent; Tax & Economic Competitiveness; and Energy & Environment committees.
Have Qs or priorities to share? You can also contact Wendy Block and the Chamber’s Business Advocacy team.