Detroit Regional Chamber > Advocacy > Policy Priorities > Democracy, Equity, and Good Government

Democracy, Equity, and Good Government

MI capitol flag WIDE

According to the Chamber’s February 2025 Michigan Voter Poll with the Glengariff Group Inc., nearly two-thirds of voters remain dissatisfied with the condition of democracy in the U.S. The erosion of confidence in democracy continues to threaten the state’s and nation’s global economic leadership.

Businesses need stability and certainty to thrive and make strategic, long-term investments that bolster economies. State and federal policy fluctuations on two- and four-year cycles are not sustainable and undermine Michigan’s ability to innovate. The state’s business and government leaders must protect democratic institutions and processes and collaborate on long-term, cohesive strategies to reestablish the trust and stability needed to support economic prosperity.

Ways the Chamber Supports Democracy

  • Vocalizes support for democratic norms and institutions.
  • Encourages bipartisanship and civility among elected officials.
  • Leverages the Glengariff Group Inc. and Gallup as polling partners to inform the business community and government officials of Michiganders’ views on economic health and the state of democracy.
  • Continues its emphasis on policies that increase voter participation and election security. Michigan ranked number three in the nation for voter turnout in 2024, with 74.6% of eligible voters casting a ballot, a level of participation the state should strive to maintain and grow.
  • Coordinates with organizations committed to growing the regional economy by supporting businesses and entrepreneurs from all social and economic backgrounds.

State of Democracy event

“Chamber members, as an aside, should be concerned about election integrity and the certification of the presidential election because I think about how your business will be affected in the stock market and consumer confidence in the economy. You want to make sure you’re supporting people … who have a reasonable, pragmatic approach to solving problems and have a track record of proving that it’s not all a partisan team in Lansing.”

– Dave Trott, Former U.S. Representative (R-MI); Member, Keep Our Republic Advisory Council