Young professionals play a vital role in state and local governments by actively engaging in decision-making processes that can impact their communities. Young professionals’ involvement is vital for stimulating economic growth at the various levels of government. By advocating for pro-business policies, supporting small businesses and pushing for infrastructure development, young professionals can foster an environment conducive to job creation and economic advancement. In essence, young professionals’ contributions can help transform towns and cities into thriving hubs of economic opportunity.

Additionally, young professionals have a stake in the attainable housing crisis that our region is facing. Active participation in government can bring attention to this issue and help shape housing policies that are responsive to the needs of a diverse and evolving population. By advocating for affordable housing initiatives, young professionals can work towards creating inclusive and accessible communities and aid in finding solutions to challenges that are faced every day.

Ahead of November’s elections, the Chamber’s Political Action Committee (PAC) has selected candidates to endorse in the City of Charleston, City of North Charleston, Town of Summerville and Town of Mount Pleasant. Candidates have been vetted and interviewed by the PAC board and are selected based upon the candidates’ alignment with legislative priorities identified by the PAC. Check out the post on this year’s endorsed candidates to learn more.

Participating in the interview process is one way for young professionals to get involved in the political process. In addition to engaging in the vetting process, young professionals have the opportunity to directly engage with the winners of this year’s elections at the PAC Reception. This event is exclusive to PAC contributors and provides the opportunity to meet newly elected or re-elected officials, regardless of whether they were endorsed by the PAC. To increase accessibility for young professionals to engage in the PAC and attend the PAC Reception, a new tier of PAC contribution has been created. The Rising Leader Level provides one ticket for the PAC Reception to those who contribute between $25 and $99.

For additional information on the Chamber’s PAC or to become a PAC contributor, please visit the Political Action Committee page. To learn more about the Chamber’s Government Relations efforts, visit the Government Relations page.