Detroit Regional Chamber PAC Unveils 2026 General Election Endorsements Focused on Economic Growth

The Detroit Regional Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC) announced its slate of endorsements for the 2026 election cycle, backing Mike Rogers for U.S. Senate and a group of candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives, Michigan State Senate, and Michigan House of Representatives who are committed to fostering economic growth and job creation.

The endorsed candidates represent leaders who demonstrate a consistent willingness to move past partisan divisions, build common ground, and prioritize policies that enhance the state and Detroit Region’s competitive economic position.

The Detroit Regional Chamber Political Action Committee (PAC) announced it has endorsed U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers for the November general election.

In the endorsement process, the Chamber PAC board raised concerns about Rogers’ previous comments on election integrity, particularly the SAVE Act, and misalignment with the candidate on tariffs, but welcomed many of Rogers’ other views on how to make housing more affordable, grow the economy, and empower employers to create good-paying jobs in Michigan.

“No candidate is perfect, and we won’t agree on every issue,” added Baruah. “But Mike Rogers impressively shared his vision for a stronger Michigan. We believe he will put the needs of Michigan and Michiganders above partisan politics and political rhetoric as he did in his previous service in Congress.”

Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed did not respond to an invitation for an interview.

The PAC added Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids), Republican Mike Bouchard Jr. (R-Rochester Hills) in the 10th District, and Democrat Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield) in the 11th District to the list of endorsed candidates. All three have demonstrated a willingness to work with the Chamber and the business community.

Previously endorsed candidates for Congress for 2026 include Jack Bergman (R-1), John Moolenaar (R-2), Bill Huizenga (R-4), Tim Walberg (R-5), Debbie Dingell (D-6), Tom Barrett (R-7), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-8), Lisa McClain (R-9).

The Chamber PAC also released its bipartisan endorsements in state and local races, including for Secretary of State and Attorney General. The PAC did not reach the two-thirds majority needed to endorse either candidate in the gubernatorial race after it originally endorsed independent candidate and former Chamber board member Mike Duggan in July 2025.

“While the PAC opted not to make a new endorsement in this high-profile race, we appreciate both candidates’ public service and desire to serve Michigan. The Chamber has worked well with Secretary Benson and Congressman James, and the PAC has previously endorsed them both in other elections. Regardless of who wins, the Chamber looks forward to collaborating with the new governor to move Michigan forward,” said Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer, Detroit Regional Chamber.

The Chamber PAC requires a two-thirds majority vote from its members to make an endorsement following a rigorous evaluation of voting records, policy alignment on issues affecting employers, and candidate interviews. The PAC is composed of bipartisan business leaders who seek to support candidates dedicated to economic growth, job creation, and consistent public policy.

In 2024, the Chamber PAC also opted not to endorse either Mike Rogers or Elissa Slotkin for the open U.S. seat, which Slotkin won.

Michigan Attorney General and Secretary of State

The PAC endorsed Republican Doug Lloyd for Attorney General and Democrat Garlin Gilchrist for Secretary of State.

County Executives in Wayne and Macomb

Warren Evans and Mark Hackel were endorsed for reelection as county executives in Wayne and Macomb counties.

Michigan House of Representatives

The PAC has endorsed candidates in the following races for the Michigan House. These endorsements were based on a voting scorecard reflecting essential Chamber priorities and survey results (21 Democrats and 45 Republicans). Employers need stability amid short-term policy changes, and bipartisan legislation is essential to bolster the talent pipeline, expand workforce training programs, and establish sensible regulations.

The following endorsements were made in the Michigan Senate (9 Democrats and 15 Republicans):

The Chamber PAC engages in a rigorous review process to evaluate candidates on their policy positions, legislative records, alignment with Chamber priorities, and understanding of the issues impacting the business community. Key factors in the endorsement process include a commitment to fiscal responsibility, infrastructure investment, advancing educational attainment, and creating a stable regulatory environment.