Grand Rapids Reporter

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.

The Select Committee’s September 2023 letter to Ford’s CEO demanded transparency and cooperation regarding all CATL-linked contracts, citing national security and human rights concerns about the company’s CCP ties. Lawmakers asserted that American firms should not enable CCP involvement in domestic manufacturing. The letter was part of ongoing congressional oversight efforts.  

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.