2010 Mackinac Conference: The real importance isn't always obvious

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. - Look below the surface for the true signals!

Once again, the historic Grand Hotel has served as the scenic backdrop for the Detroit Regional Chamber’s annual meeting with many of Michigan’s most powerful movers and shakers. A lot is being written about the 2010 Mackinac Conference and what some speakers and panelists are saying. From Newt Gingrich to Kathleen Sebelius to Sergio Marchionne, each one is thought provoking. But for someone who has attended this conference a zillion times, the pivotal moment was the debate between the Michigan gubernatorial candidates.

What they said about the issues wasn’t nearly as important as how they said it. What we finally saw was their true personalities! Who’s excitable, who attacks, who takes the high road, who is humorous, who thinks quickly on their feet. Etc. By the end of the debate, you could start to sense who you might like for Michigan’s highest political office.

And what you didn’t see was a private meeting they had immediately after the debate with Detroit Mayor Dave Bing. He wisely wanted Michigan’s next governor to know that he expects Detroit to be a friend and priority. Now that’s a smart political move without screaming it to the media. Build the relationships now that could pay big dividends later.