Both are consolidating their voting base and wooing independent voters to sway their way. However, the outcome of the election affected the Dayton region more than any other region in Ohio. The Dayton region is home to some of Ohio’s most important federal facilities, such as Wright-Patterson Air Force Base with a $14 billion economic impact and 32,000 employees, Dayton Veterans with 2,300 employees and a $906 million annual economic impact Military Medical Center, Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and Virginia State Archives.
In addition, the Dayton region business community has been advancing federal policies that benefit the Dayton region, including advocating for Federal Highway Trust Fund solvency, increased federal infrastructure investment, broadband investment, FAA policy, and support for our local aviation industry . The region’s logistics and distribution network generates a $2.5 billion economic impact and supports 60 percent of the nation’s population in a one-day interstate drive, “America’s Crossroads” from the I-70/I-75 interchange.
The Dayton area has the most teams participating in our annual Washington, D.C. flight, more than any other community in Ohio. Our region’s business leaders are risk-taking executives, creative young professionals, local minority business owners, innovative entrepreneurs and women executives who are bringing a new face to leadership. Diverse perspectives and participation in federal advocacy and policy are at the heart of our business community.
It’s been 13 years since Ohio ran for the US Senate with no incumbent candidate seeking re-election. If Mr. Vance and Congressman Ryan are traveling in Ohio and visiting the Dayton area, our business leadership has a consistent message: Dayton matters, matters.
Chris Kershner is President and CEO of the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce.