Election years are an important time for physicians to understand the role of the Michigan Doctors Political Action Committee (MDPAC) and how it works to support candidates who understand and value the issues facing physicians and patients across Michigan.
The MDPAC supports candidates across the political spectrum who demonstrate that they are champions of medicine and understand the issues that matter to physicians and their patients. The focus is on finding and supporting candidates who will be strong advocates for Michigan physicians and a healthy, accessible health care system, regardless of party affiliation.
MDPAC’s endorsement process is deliberate, thorough and focused on ensuring that candidates understand the realities of practicing medicine today. The process begins well before an endorsement is made.
Step 1: Reviewing the questionnaire
The MDPAC Board begins by thoroughly reviewing its candidate questionnaire. The goal is to ensure that the questions are timely, relevant and address the most important issues affecting the practice of medicine today. The questionnaire is an important tool for learning where candidates stand on issues of importance to physicians and the patients they serve.
Step 2: Reaching out to candidates
Immediately following the primary election, the questionnaire, along with an introduction from MDPAC, is sent to candidates. Candidates are given a deadline in September to respond, and MDPAC sends weekly reminders throughout the process to encourage participation and ensure every candidate has an opportunity to provide their responses.
Step 3: Reviewing the candidates and the races
Once responses are received, they are collected and reviewed by the MDPAC Board of Directors. The Board considers the candidates’ questionnaire responses along with other relevant information, including personal knowledge of the candidates, the nature of the race, voting records when applicable, and other factors that may help inform the endorsement process.
Not every race necessarily results in an endorsement. In some cases, a candidate may not respond to the questionnaire, and MDPAC may not have sufficient additional information or knowledge about the candidate to make an informed decision. In those situations, MDPAC may choose to remain neutral and stay out of the race.
Why MDPAC’s Work Matters
MDPAC provides an organized way for the physician community to participate in the political process and make its voice heard. Endorsements are not made casually; they are the result of a structured review designed to gather meaningful information about candidates and their understanding of issues important to medicine.
The process has also demonstrated strong results. Historically, 96% of MDPAC-endorsed candidates have been successful in their races.
As Michigan heads into another election season, MSMS members can play an important role by staying informed about MDPAC’s work, understanding the endorsement process and supporting efforts to ensure that the physician perspective is represented in the halls of government.
Support MDPAC
MDPAC’s ability to support pro-medicine candidates depends on the participation of Michigan physicians. You can help elect candidates who will champion medicine and advocate for physicians and patients by making a contribution to MDPAC. Every contribution helps strengthen the voice of medicine in Michigan’s political process.
Support MDPAC and help elect pro-medicine candidates: Donate to MDPAC
For further information, please contact MSMS Director of Government Affairs, Kate Dorsey, at kdorsey@msms.org.