Genesee News

Rich Studley, Former President and CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, said the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's leadership allowed environmental damage, dishonesty, and financial mismanagement under its current executive team. The statement was made on X.

According to Michigan News Source, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel's office executed search warrants at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) headquarters and a private residence linked to a controversial $20 million grant. This action intensified a long-running investigation into the agency's economic development grants, highlighting concerns over oversight and potential misuse of funds. The raid underscores ongoing scrutiny of the MEDC's executive committee and its management practices.

The site of Ford Motor Co.'s BlueOval electric vehicle battery plant in Marshall, Michigan, has been cited for repeated sediment runoff into the Kalamazoo River. According to The Midwesterner, the Kalamazoo River Watershed Council raised concerns about construction at the 1.8 million-square-foot facility, which has also faced a lawsuit from locals attempting to halt the development. These environmental issues have prompted scrutiny of the project's impact on the river ecosystem.

In a letter from September 2023, the House Select Committee on the CCP requested that Ford’s CEO cooperate with its investigation into CATL, highlighting concerns over the company’s links to forced labor and CCP industrial policy. Lawmakers insisted Ford’s deal with CATL must be fully scrutinized and, if necessary, stopped to protect US security and values. Compliance with this demand was described as essential to prevent CCP expansion in American industries. 

Rich Studley served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, where he was responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all Chamber programs, including legislative and political action. According to the Mackinac Center, Studley played a significant role in advocating for business interests in Michigan and was a prominent figure in the state's economic development discussions. His leadership at the Chamber positioned him as an influential voice on issues affecting Michigan's business community.