Michigan Chronicle’s 21st season of Pancakes & Politics will return in 2026 earlier than its normal spring kickoff.
This coming year, Pancakes & Politics will kick off with a special Auto Show Edition on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, at 7:30 a.m. at Huntington Place in Detroit, bringing together influential voices from the automotive industry, policy circles, and the community for a morning of meaningful discussion.
Tickets for the event are now on sale, and seats are expected to fill up quickly. Individual tickets and table reservations are available for those who want to be part of this important conversation.
As one of the most highly anticipated events surrounding the Detroit Auto Show, Pancakes & Politics promises to be an event where attendees can engage with influential figures and be part of the discussion about Michigan’s future in the auto industry.
The event, a staple on Detroit’s civic calendar, sets the stage for one of the city’s most important conversations of the year. The Pancakes & Politics Auto Show Edition will focus on key issues impacting the automotive industry and Michigan’s economic future. From advancements in electric vehicle technology to the region’s role in global manufacturing, the event will offer critical insights on the future of mobility, manufacturing, and economic growth.
“The Detroit Auto Show is about more than cars – it’s about community, innovation, and charting the future,” said Sam Klemet, Executive Director of the Detroit Auto Show. “Partnering with the Michigan Chronicle on Pancakes & Politics allows us to bring important conversations to the forefront during one of the city’s most high-profile events.”
As the auto industry continues to evolve, Michigan is working to maintain its leadership in automotive manufacturing and innovation. The panel discussions at Pancakes & Politics will dive into topics such as smart city technology, electric vehicle infrastructure, and workforce development, all of which are crucial to ensuring the region’s continued success. Panelists, who will be announced soon, will include experts from the automotive sector, policymakers, and community leaders.
For Hiram E. Jackson, Publisher of the Michigan Chronicle, the event is an opportunity to bring together diverse perspectives in a setting that fosters real dialogue on the issues that will define the future of Detroit and the state of Michigan.
“Pancakes & Politics has grown into an important tradition not only for the Michigan Chronicle but for Detroit and the region as a whole,” Jackson said. “It’s where industry leaders, policymakers, and community members come together to discuss the future of our cities and the issues that will shape the coming decades. This event is essential to making sure Detroit remains a leader in innovation and economic progress, and we’re excited to partner with the Detroit Auto Show and WDIV/Local 4 Plus to make this happen.”
As Michigan continues to navigate a rapidly changing auto industry, the Pancakes & Politics Auto Show Edition provides a unique opportunity to hear from leaders who are shaping the future of mobility and the workforce. The event will also be a chance to discuss how Detroit can position itself as a hub for innovation in the automotive sector, building on its rich history while looking toward the future.
With the Detroit Auto Show just around the corner, the Pancakes & Politics event is an essential prelude to the week’s activities. It offers a chance to start the year with new ideas, fresh perspectives, and the connections that will help shape Detroit’s future as a leader in automotive innovation and economic development. For a full list of Detroit Auto Show events, visit DetroitAutoShow.com.
