Election outlook: key races in 2009 and beyond.

The Detroit Regional Chamber's Political Action Committee (PAC) regularly meets to identify and endorse candidates who support the chamber's pro-business public policy agenda. Below is a guide to some of the important races this fall.

City of Detroit

Mayor of Detroit

The chamber PAC endorsed the current Mayor of the City of Detroit, Dave Bing, for re-election.

Detroit City Council

The chamber PAC interviewed 16 candidates running for Detroit City Council. Based on the PAC's criteria for endorsement and the candidates' performance in the interviews, the PAC endorsed six individuals who represent the type and quality of leadership that will return integrity and accountability to Detroit City government.

The following individuals have been endorsed by the chamber PAC:*

Gary Brown

Ken Cockrel, Jr.

Jai-Lee Dearing

Fred Elliott Hall

Saunteel Jenkins

Charles Pugh

Detroit City Charter Revision Commission

The chamber PAC also announced its endorsement of several candidates running for the Detroit City Charter Revision Commission. The Charter Revision process presents a unique opportunity for qualified Detroiters to demonstrate leadership in helping the city to amend and update the central document which governs how the City of Detroit conducts business.

The following individuals have been endorsed by the chamber PAC:*

Jenice Mitchell-Ford

Sarah Lile

Jonathan Kinloch

Patty Fedewa

Ken Harris

John Eddings

Cara Blount

Ken Coleman

The chamber PAC's endorsement is based on the candidate's working knowledge of the legislative and executive branches of government; understanding of the Charter revision process, purpose and history; support for Council by Districts; and support for structural reforms to reduce redundant or ineffective government and produce cost savings.

"All of these candidates represent the type of leadership Detroit City government needs today," said chamber PAC Chairman Terence A. Thomas, Sr. "Chamber PAC Board members recognized that these candidates possess the experience and dedication necessary to tackle the tough challenges facing the city."

Macomb County Charter

Earlier this year Governor Jennifer Granholm approved a proposed new Macomb County Charter, which was written by the 26-member, elected charter commission and would, among other things, create new ethics rules, reduce the number of commissioners from 26 to 11 and create an executive-style government similar to Wayne and Oakland counties.

The governor's decision allows voters to adopt the charter in November. If approved, a primary election would be held in May for a county executive, followed by a general election in November 2010.

The chamber supports the proposed new county charter. We support efforts that will make government more accountable, efficient and responsive. The chamber also supported the creation of the Wayne County Charter in the early 80s.

Beyond November 2009

Stay tuned for 2010 coverage and endorsements. Some of the notable races include:

* Michigan Govenor

* Michigan Congressional Delegation -House and Senate

* Michigan Legislature - House and Senate

* Michigan Attorney General

* Michigan Secretary of State

* All County Commissioners - Wayne, Oakland and Macomb

* Wayne County Executive

* Mayor, City of Southfield