Vote With Your Retailer Cap On

2026 will be a pivotal election year.

While there’s no presidential race dominating national attention, there are dozens of key races taking place in Michigan, including all 148 state legislative offices and major statewide races for governor, U.S. Senate, attorney general, and more.

While the bigger names command more media coverage, the elections that will have the biggest impact on retailers and small businesses will likely be those closest to home.

Every election season, MRA designates candidates for the Michigan Senate and Michigan House of Representatives as “Friends of Retail” based on survey responses and vote histories. The legislators who earned the “Friend of Retail” designation this year come from both political parties and every region of the state. By asking about specific issues, we can cut through political posturing and get clear answers on the policies that matter most to retailers. More than a stock platform, we’re interested in candidates who are willing to listen to the needs of their communities.

For some, that might be a need for better tools to combat organized retail crime. For others, it might be clearer rules for youth employment. Some just want the state government to let small businesses operate in peace, without fear of new taxes or burdensome regulations. Retailers understand the impact they have in their communities as staples of the local economy and as job providers. Our latest Buy Nearby study highlighted that retail employs 11% of Michigan’s workforce. That’s a broad reach, touching every legislative district, and it means that retail has a commanding voice that our elected officials need to hear.

This election season we’re encouraging our members to “vote with your retailer cap on.” That might look different for members in different retail sectors, or in different parts of the state. For everyone, though, it means seeking out candidates who have a relationship to retail.

Our “Friend of Retail” list, also listed at retailers.com/election2026, is a great place to start, but it doesn’t have to end there. Make your voice heard at the ballot box, but also by inviting candidates and elected officials to your store, reaching out on key issues, and staying connected after election day has come and gone.

Together, we can elevate champions who will work for the good of retail.