When it comes to democracy, 2022 was full of many trials and tribulations, in addition to some pleasant surprises. While we watched the aftermath of the January 6th insurrection and saw continued attacks on inclusivity in the name of free speech, we also saw heroic attempts by people to defend the principles of democracy and witnessed an historic rebuke of election denialism in the midterms. Throughout the year, Leadership Now and its members worked together to inform, engage and mobilize business leaders to ensure the United States has a strong democracy and economy. See below for a brief recap of our 2022 highlights:
Leadership
Recruited new members from reputable businesses, universities, and civic institutions
Increased position as a leading nonpartisan, trusted voice on how the business community can protect US democracy
Hosted and participated in a variety of thought-provoking events from the Master of Scale Summit to Fast Company’s Innovation Festival
Launched a LinkedIn newsletter, which obtained 800 followers after the first issue
More than 70 stories placed in major media outlets highlighting LNP and its members, including The New York Times, Financial Times, and Fast Company
Coverage of LNP and its members in more than 70 major media outlets
Actions & Results
After engaging with numerous senators, making our support known in the press and in many on- and off-the-record convenings, encouraging other business associations to sign on, and working in collaboration with organizations to advance the legislation, Electoral Count Reform Act was passed as part of the ombinus spending package in December.
Mobilized influential business groups in support of Michigan’s Promote the Vote ballot initiative, which was passed in November
Joined more than 60 groups and individuals submitting amicus briefs in Moore vs. Harper, which could give state legislatures unprecedented control over elections.
Launched the Project Democracy PAC, which supports candidates and elected officials who advance an effective democracy for all Americans . Majority of PAC-endorsed candidates won their midterm elections, including Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers
Hosted 30+ briefings with renowned academics and authors; elected officials and candidates; and partners like Voting Rights Lab, Protect Democracy and WorkMoney.
Developed innovative, informative tools including the Business Leader’s Guide to Democracy, Democracy Report Card and Corporate Civic Engagement Toolkit
Released impactful research on Business Risk in Flawed Democracy, ESG and Political Influence, the Role of Independent Women, and more.
Members, which belong to various political parties, collaborated and developed meaningful plans at our largest-ever annual meeting
Funded survey led by Tufts University Associate Professor of Political Science, Dr. Eitan Hersh, examining business leaders’ attitudes toward political engagement
Became a founding member of the Business and Democracy Initiative, a partnership that mobilizes corporate leaders committed to protecting elections and rebuilding trust in democratic institutions
Thank you to all of our members, partners, and funders for your support and collaboration in 2022. We look forward to continuing to work together to protect and improve our democracy in 2023 and beyond.
Leadership Now Project is a section 501(c)(4) social welfare organization with a mission to protect and renew American democracy. Project Democracy is a separate, affiliated political organization that supports candidates who share that mission.