Michigan’s Automotive Industry Future: A Conversation With Congressman John James

On Oct. 16, 2026, members of MichAuto’s Advisory Board participated in a private discussion with U.S. Rep. John James to explore his priorities for Michigan’s automotive and mobility industry should he be elected governor. The conversation was part of MichAuto’s stakeholder engagement efforts for the Michigan Automotive Roadmap project.

A consistent theme permeated the discussion: Michigan cannot remain competitive in the industry that built the nation’s first highways and perfected the assembly line unless it takes decisive action. James emphasized that Michigan is at a critical moment, and if elected governor, understands the imperative to work with MichAuto and its investor community to ensure the state’s signature industry remains globally competitive.

During the meeting, MichAuto Executive Director, Glenn Stevens Jr., outlined the year-long effort to gain feedback and insights from the industry and its numerous stakeholders. This process has taken the MichAuto team across the state to engage executives, K-12 and workforce professionals, and startup entrepreneurs to help inform the project. The sum total of this engagement is being utilized to create the Michigan Automotive Roadmap to be unveiled at MichAuto’s annual State of the Industry event on Dec. 10, 2026. It will also be provided to the incoming governor and their team during the transition period prior to Jan 1, 2027.

MichAuto appreciated the opportunity to have U.S. Rep. John James meet with the Advisory Board. MichAuto extended the same invitation to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and looks forward to that conversation. She has been a consistent partner with MichAuto and has been engaged in ongoing dialogue with MichAuto.