Why Your Voice Matters in Michigan’s 2026 Election

This article appeared in the August 2026 issue of MiMfg Magazine. Read the full issue and find past issues online.

Michigan manufacturers know that public policy has a direct impact on their ability to grow, invest and compete. From taxes and energy policy to workforce development and regulatory requirements, decisions made in Lansing impact your business every day. That is why advocacy remains one of MMA’s core priorities — and why member engagement is especially important during this election year.

The 2026 election will shape Michigan’s political landscape for years to come. Voters will select a new Governor and Legislature — along with statewide offices including Attorney General, Secretary of State and judicial candidates — all of whom will influence policies affecting manufacturing competitiveness, workforce development and economic growth.

MMA’s Government Affairs team works aggressively to ensure manufacturing has a strong voice in these conversations. We advocate for policies that support job creation, workforce development, competitive tax structures, regulatory certainty and a business climate that encourages investment in Michigan. We also work to educate policymakers about the realities manufacturers face and the critical role our industry plays in the state’s economy.

But effective advocacy cannot happen in Lansing alone.

Manufacturers are the most credible advocates for manufacturing. Lawmakers want to hear directly from business leaders, plant managers and employees in their communities. When manufacturers share how policies affect their operations, workforce and future investment decisions, elected officials gain a much clearer understanding of what is at stake.

That is why MMA encourages members to be actively engaged throughout the election cycle.

As an industry leader, becoming an informed voter is critical to making your manufacturing voice heard.

To amplify your voice and expand your impact, we encourage you to share your views with your employees. Studies show employees trust their employers regarding the future of the company and the impact of politics on the company. MMA’s Election Center provides resources to help members understand key races, access voter information, and learn about the candidates who support a strong manufacturing economy. The Election Center also includes important election dates and tools to help members prepare to vote — see mimfg.org/election.

Members can also participate in MMA’s policy committees, which help shape the association’s policy positions and legislative agenda. These member-driven groups provide valuable opportunities to influence advocacy priorities and ensure that MMA’s efforts reflect the needs of manufacturers across the state.

Supporting MMA’s political engagement efforts is an important way members can make an impact. Through the MMA-PAC and MMA ImPACt Fund, manufacturers and manufacturing supporters can help advance pro-manufacturing candidates and policies through legal, transparent and highly regulated political engagement activities.

Finally, manufacturers can educate colleagues and community members about the issues that affect manufacturing competitiveness. Whether discussing workforce challenges, tax policy or economic development, helping others understand manufacturing’s role in Michigan’s future strengthens the industry’s collective voice.

Elections establish the framework for policy decisions that follow. The more engaged manufacturers are today, the better positioned our industry will be tomorrow. MMA will continue advocating on behalf of members but our success ultimately depends on manufacturers across Michigan speaking with one strong, unified voice. Together, we can help create a policy environment that supports growth, innovation and a thriving manufacturing economy for years to come.