News/Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Texas Business Leaders Call for Fair, Secure Elections and Respect for the Certification Process Texas Business Leaders Join Over 80 Leading Business Voices From Across the Country to Issue Statement Ahead of the 2026 Midterm Elections WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, dozens of the country’s leading business organizations and business leaders, including several from Texas, spearheaded by the Texas Business Leader Alliance , Business & Democracy Initiative, Black Economic Alliance and Small Business for America’s Future , issued the following statement calling for a fair and secure election process as the 2026 midterm elections approach. Launching off recent research from Scott Miller around the economic imperative of capitalism and democracy , this joint statement echoes calls from other leaders to safeguard election integrity, including philanthropic leader Heather Gerkin and former U.S. Treasury Secretary Bob Rubin , The Conference Board CEO Center , and local leaders like U.S. Conference of Mayors President and San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and former North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory . As business leaders, we are committed to free, fair, and secure elections, the fundamental right of every eligible American to vote, and a transparent and lawful election certification process. A strong economy depends on strong public institutions. Protecting the legitimacy of our elections, respecting the Constitution and rule of law without interference or intimidation, as well as maintaining confidence in the democratic process are shared responsibilities that serve the interests of us all. Election legitimacy is not only a civic priority, it is an economic imperative. The strength of the American economy rests on these principles, which create the stable environment businesses need to grow, invest, and plan for the future. As business leaders, we recognize our responsibility to reinforce trust in the institutions that support both our democracy and our economy. We stand behind the right to fair and secure elections, and we affirm the importance of allowing election officials to complete the counting, verification, and certification of results without interference. We call for transparency and patience during the certification process in every state following the 2026 midterm elections, with every eligible vote counted and results certified in accordance with the rule of law. Here’s what Texas business voices had to say: Erika Gonzalez, CEO, President, & Co-Founder of South Texas Allergy and Asthma Medical Professionals (STAAMP ) and Co-Chair, Small Business for America's Future , San Antonio, Texas: "Every business decision is an investment in the future. Whether we're hiring an employee, expanding operations, or serving a new customer, we're counting on a stable environment and institutions that function as intended. That's why election integrity matters to small businesses. Every eligible vote should be counted accurately, the certification process should be transparent, and lawful results should be respected. Confidence in our democratic institutions gives entrepreneurs the foundation they need to keep investing in their businesses and communities." Todd Hogan, CEO, Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce , Austin, Texas: “Austin’s economy runs on trust: trust between businesses and customers, between neighbors, and between voters and the officials who count their ballots. As Travis County and the State of Texas complete canvass and certification, the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce encourages our members, partners, and fellow Central Texans to be patient, turn to official sources for accurate results, and thank the election workers and volunteers who have worked to make sure every eligible vote is counted. A careful, transparent process strengthens our democracy and the community our businesses call home.” Luis A. Rodriguez, President & CEO, San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (SAHCC): “Strong businesses and thriving communities depend on institutions we can trust. Safe, secure, and accessible elections, where every eligible vote is counted and the results are respected, help provide the stability and confidence businesses need to invest, grow, and create jobs. For Hispanic entrepreneurs and small business owners, that confidence is especially important as we work to expand economic opportunity and ensure every community has a voice in shaping our future. Protecting the integrity of our elections and ensuring a patient certification process strengthens both our democracy and our economy.” Kelley Taylor, CEO, Taylor Construction Management , Dallas, Texas: “Voting is both a fundamental right and an essential part of a healthy democracy. Texas business leaders understand that confidence in our elections contributes to the stability our communities and economy need to thrive. That confidence is strengthened through transparency, accountability, and a commitment to ensuring that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate. We all have a stake in supporting safe and secure elections, respecting the lawful process, and encouraging every eligible voter to make their voice heard. A strong democracy and a thriving economy are built on trust, civic responsibility, and the collective participation of the people we serve.” Chris E. Wallace, President and CEO, North Texas Commission , Irving, Texas: : “Public confidence in our elections matters to the health of our communities and our economy. Safe, secure, transparent, and accessible elections give Texans confidence that every eligible voter can participate and that every lawful vote will be counted. As business and community leaders, we have an important role in reinforcing trust in the process, encouraging patient participation, and supporting the institutions that allow North Texas and our state to prosper.” Tammi Wallace, Co-Founder and President, Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce , Houston, Texas: “Democracy and economic opportunity are deeply connected. Businesses need stable institutions, and people need to know their voices matter. We see safe, secure elections and an orderly, lawful certification process as essential to both. The business community must help uphold public confidence by supporting election workers, respecting the process, and ensuring every eligible vote is counted. Our shared prosperity depends on it.” Becki Womble, CCE, IOM, ACM, President and CEO, Bastrop Regional Chamber of Commerce , Bastrop, Texas: “Our businesses depend on a community where trust, respect and the rule of law guide how we move forward together. That responsibility extends to our elections. As business and community leaders, we can help by setting a thoughtful example, allowing election officials to complete their work, and supporting the lawful certification of results that reflect every eligible vote. Our shared commitment to the region’s future must remain stronger than our political differences.” ### This is an open statement that will continue to accept submissions up to the inauguration of the 120th Congress. If you would like to add your name, we encourage you to use your voice! Join by filling out the form linked here.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Becker Kaufman Becker@emccommunications.com 703-728-0135 Texas Business Leader Alliance expands team and partnerships to deepen statewide engagement Cyronica Upshaw joins as Head of Growth and Partnerships; Sharon Jones appointed to Houston Black Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors HOUSTON, April 3, 2026 — The Texas Business Leader Alliance (TBLA) today announced the expansion of its leadership team as the organization continues to grow its reach across the Lone Star State. Cyronica Upshaw has been hired as Head of Growth and Partnerships, and Sharon Jones has also been named to the Board of Directors of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce. "We're thrilled to welcome Cyronica to the TBLA team," Jones said. "Her experience in strategic partnerships and community engagement is a tremendous addition as we continue to grow our work on behalf of Texas business leaders." Cyronica brings valuable experience, a strong network, and a deep commitment to expanding partnerships and opportunities that will help advance our work in Texas. In her role, she will own TBLA’s growth strategy while helping shape the organization’s future operating model and leadership structure. As TBLA continues to drive meaningful impact at the intersection of the public and private sectors, Cyronica’s leadership and expertise will be important to the organization's efforts. "I’m excited to work alongside the extraordinary leaders of the Texas Business Leaders Alliance to harness the unmatched economic power of Texas,” Said Upshaw. “Our state has long been a driver of innovation, growth, and opportunity, and I’m honored to help build partnerships that ensure Texas businesses are not just participating in the conversation about our future but leading it." TBLA also celebrates Jones's appointment to the Board of Directors of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce, a move that further strengthens the ties between the organization and Houston's business community. "We are pleased to welcome Sharon Jones to the Greater Houston Black Chamber's Board of Directors," said Dr. Asheli S. Atkins, President and CEO of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce. "Sharon has been a consistent champion for business leaders in Texas, and her commitment to civic engagement and economic opportunity aligns with the Chamber's mission. We look forward to her contributions as we continue working to strengthen Houston's business community." "I'm honored to take on this expanded role with TBLA and to join the Board of the Greater Houston Black Chamber of Commerce," said Jones. "Both reflect a commitment I hold deeply — making sure Texas business leaders have a seat at the table when it comes to the policies shaping our communities." TBLA launched in December 2024 in response to a survey of 500 Texas business leaders that revealed a striking consensus: 97% recognized the importance of civic engagement, and nearly two-thirds believed businesses should participate more actively. Since then, the organization has convened roundtables, conducted research, and built a statewide network of business leaders focused on bipartisan policy areas ranging from workforce development and healthcare costs to civic participation. ### About the Texas Business Leader Alliance The Texas Business Leader Alliance is a collaborative that provides a platform for business leaders to actively shape our state's economic future through civic engagement. Recognizing that business success and community well-being are intrinsically linked, the Texas Business Leader Alliance connects private sector, government, and community stakeholders to work on solutions to our state’s challenges. For more information, visit txbizleaderalliance.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Becker Kaufman Becker@emccommunications.com Record-Breaking Texas Primary Turnout is a Positive Sign for the Texas Business Community Statement by Texas Business Leader Alliance Senior Advisor Sharon Jones on record primary election turnout in Texas, and why it's a positive sign for for the Texas business community March 9, 2026 – "Last Tuesday's record-breaking primary turnout in Texas is exactly the kind of civic participation business leaders should encourage. When more Texans show up at the ballot box, it strengthens the system that underpins everything our businesses rely on: stable governance, representative outcomes, and public trust in institutions. "More than 4.29 million voters cast ballots in last Tuesday's primary, the highest primary turnout in the state's history. For a state that has long ranked near the bottom nationally in voter participation, this is a moment worth recognizing. "Texas has a voter participation problem . In the 2024 primary, only 18% of registered voters showed up, and five out of six eligible Texans stayed home. For a state that leads the nation in job creation, business formation, and economic growth, that kind of civic disengagement is unacceptable. "Tuesday's results suggest Texans are beginning to close the gap. Roughly 24% of registered voters participated, up from 18% in the last primary cycle. Turnout surged in counties across the state, from major metro areas to rural communities. This type of civic engagement and commitment undoubtedly strengthens our democracy and our business ecosystem. "A 2024 survey of Texas business leaders conducted by the Texas Business Leader Alliance found that 91% agree a strong democracy where everyone can participate is crucial to a vibrant economy. Nearly 97% say it is important for business leaders to be involved in public policy discussions. Tuesday showed that when Texans engage, Texas leads. And when the business community encourages participation, it strengthens the civic infrastructure our economy depends on. “Recognizing this, the Texas Business Leader Alliance actively participated in efforts to boost civic engagement and voter turnout statewide. In the weeks leading up to the primary, we provided chambers of commerce and business networks across the state with nonpartisan toolkits, organized roundtables discussing the importance of primaries for the business community, and mobilized business leaders to encourage voting among their employees and peers. "This is not about any one party, candidate, or race. Higher participation produces better outcomes for everyone. "We applaud every Texan who showed up on Tuesday. And we encourage the business community to keep this momentum going, through the May runoffs, through November, and beyond. Texas has always kept score. Now we're finally competing where it counts." To request an interview with Texas Business Leader Alliance’s Senior Advisor Sharon Jones, contact Becker Kaufman at Becker@emccommunications.com ### About the Texas Business Leader Alliance  The Texas Business Leader Alliance is a collaborative that provides a platform for business leaders to actively shape our state's economic future through civic engagement. Recognizing that business success and community well-being are intrinsically linked, the Texas Business Leader Alliance connects private sector, government, and community stakeholders to work on solutions to our state’s challenges. For more information, visit txbizleaderalliance.org