Chamber Perspective: 2024 General Election Outcomes, PAC Successes

The Detroit Regional Chamber cares deeply about maintaining a strong democracy and civil society as free enterprise and economic growth can only exist in an environment with a well-informed and engaged citizenry, confident in core American institutions and norms. With election day having come and gone – and as results continue to be finalized – it is worth reflecting on the success and integrity of our election processes.

Tabulations have been efficient, and the election reforms voters approved in 2018 and 2022, like early voting and no-reason absentee voting with legislatively passed pre-processing laws, contributed significantly to streamlining the count.

The Detroit Regional Chamber applauds Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and her team at the Michigan Department of State on operating a peaceful, secure, fair, safe, and accessible election. This was also made possible in large part by the diligent efforts of local clerks, election workers, and volunteers who upheld these processes.

The counting and certification process takes time, and the Chamber encourages continued patience and respect for the processes in place to protect the integrity of our elections.

Election Outcomes and Chamber PAC Endorsement Successes

In reviewing election results, the Detroit Regional Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC) achieved a 93% success rate for candidates it endorsed in the 2024 general election. This success underscores the Chamber PAC’s rigorous endorsement process and commitment to promoting leaders who will support business in Michigan.

The Chamber PAC did not endorse a candidate in the U.S. Senate race for the 2024 general election, with Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Sandy K. Baruah sharing, “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, the very tight race went to Rep. Elissa Slotkin.

“On behalf of the Chamber PAC, congratulations to Reps. Bergman, Moolenaar, Scholten, Huizenga, Walberg, Dingell, McClain, Stevens, Tlaib, and Thanedar on their victories. Whether endorsed by the PAC or not, the Chamber team looks forward to their continued public service and collaboration on issues that will impact the business community and their constituents,” said Williams.

7th Congressional District – Tom Barrett (R) 

“While the Chamber PAC expressed a different preference than voters of the 7th District, Congressman-elect Tom Barrett’s long record of service as a veteran and in the Legislature will serve him well. The business community looks forward to working with him to advance the Region’s and state’s economic interests.”

8th Congressional District – State Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D) 

“Congresswoman-elect Kristen McDonald Rivet’s experience in public policy predates her experience as a State Senator with the Skillman Foundation and Michigan Future. The Chamber looks forward to working with her as a member of Congress to address the barriers keeping our talent pipeline from reaching its full potential.”

10th Congressional District – Rep. John James (R) 

“Congratulations to Congressman John James on his return to Congress for a second term. A veteran and longtime member of the Chamber and business community, Congressman James provides the leadership that our Region needs to build the bridges necessary for Southeast Michigan to flourish.

The Chamber also celebrates the elections and re-elections of the following candidates the PAC endorsed for the Michigan House of Representatives:

Post-election Resources 

The Chamber remains steadfast in its commitment to democracy, civility, and bipartisanship to build a stronger, more prosperous Michigan for all. The Chamber looks forward to continuing its work to best represent its members and the economic interests of the Detroit Region and state.

Business leaders are still encouraged to share fact-based post-election information with their employees and communities as the election certification process continues.