Friday Five: Putting growth on the agenda

By Doug Loon
President and CEO
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce

The results are in. Voters on Tuesday sent a clear message that costs and affordability are top of mind for Minnesota families and businesses. Senator Klobuchar will become our next governor, and the DFL will hold majorities in both the Minnesota House and Minnesota Senate.

That means one party will control state government for the second time this decade. We have seen what a trifecta delivers, and Minnesota's economy simply cannot afford a repeat.

The numbers tell the story. Between 2019 and 2025, Minnesota ranked 49th in the country for GDP growth per capita and 33rd for labor force growth. We are falling behind.

Economic growth matters because it raises wages, meets community needs and sustains the quality of life Minnesotans value.

I want to congratulate Governor-elect Klobuchar on her historic win. The Chamber is ready to work with her and her new administration, and I believe there is real common ground to find ways to grow our economy.

A growth agenda is not a partisan idea. It can and should have support from both sides of the aisle. But make no mistake, we will stay true to our principles. We will fight back aggressively at the Capitol against new taxes, mandates and regulations that would set our state back.

Heading into the 2027 legislative session, we will push the recommendations found in our Blueprint for Economic Growth, a study that builds on the data-backed work of the Minnesota Chamber Foundation and the ideas candidates discussed at our gubernatorial forum in October.

Minnesota has both the need and the opportunity to move forward with this growth agenda. A state where businesses can grow and families can thrive is within reach. The Chamber intends to lead the way, alongside other business organizations and our members, in making the case for economic growth.

I hope you will join us at the Chamber's Annual Meeting on November 17. This year's theme is Minnesota's Economic Runway, focusing on what our state needs to build momentum and compete in the years ahead.

We will examine where Minnesota's economy stands today, what is holding us back and the policies that can help create a path toward growth during the 2027 legislative session.

This year's Annual Meeting will also be personal to me. It will be my last event as President and CEO of the Minnesota Chamber.

I cannot think of a better way to close out my time than with the members who have made this organization so strong. I hope you will join us for a meaningful conversation about where our state is headed, a celebration of our organization and an opportunity for me to thank you for all you have done to support me.

It has been an honor to lead this organization, our amazing team of professionals, our volunteer leaders and our members who have worked alongside me to help us all succeed.

Thank you to each of you. I hope to see you on November 17. You can register now at mnchamber.com.

We have work to do. Onward, Minnesota. We care about our economic future, your business's success and your success here in Minnesota.

Have a great weekend, and I look forward to connecting with you on the next episode of the Minnesota Business Podcast.