Advocacy News – Nov. 9, 2022
Last night’s election results are in, and Michigan Democrats up and down the ticket had a strong performance.
- The Governor, Attorney General and Secretary of State (all Democrats) were all re-elected.
- Democrats now hold narrow majorities in the State House (56-54) and State Senate (20-18).
- MI Supreme Court Justice Brian Zahra, whom the Chamber endorsed, won his bid for re-election. So did Justice Richard Bernstein.
- Republicans hold six congressional seats and Democrats hold seven.
- Proposal 1, the term limits and transparency ballot proposal which the Chamber supported, also prevailed along with Proposals 2 (election related) and 3 (abortion/reproductive freedom).
This is the first-time Democrats will lead the Senate in approximately 40 years, and for the House, the first time in a decade. Undoubtedly, Democrats will bring different policy ideas to the table and time will tell what their top priorities will be.
The good news is that the Chamber has spent the last four years working with a Republican legislature and Democratic governor. We have successfully navigated this environment to get key things done and to forge relationships on both sides of the aisle. We believe this can and will continue to happen – regardless of who is control. And we’re deeply committed to making that happen – and listening, being conveners and pragmatic policy solvers. This is because of our member-focus and the unique honor we have to be a voice for business in the State Capitol.
Click here for the Michigan Chamber’s reaction and statement re: the Nov. 8 general election results.
As we look toward the new year, the Chamber’s priority will continue to be representing our members from across the state and working to find solutions to the issues you and job providers are telling us about, from looming recession concerns to the ongoing supply chain pain and workforce and talent shortages. Now, more than ever, it is important that we understand your needs and challenges and to be strong advocates in the legislative and regulatory processes.
To this end, please make sure to check out tomorrow’s Economic & Business Outlook if you have the chance – it’s free and virtual. This in-demand annual event will take a deep dive into all the latest data and trends expected to shape the economy in 2023 and how businesses can prepare. We hope to see you there.
Please reach out to Wendy Block at wblock@michamber.com with questions or to let us know your biggest issues.