Through a variety of programs initiated over the years, the industry has connected with some of the most important contacts: politicians.
California Connections
Following the 2012 elections, SEMA identified several newly elected lawmakers who had an interest in the automotive specialty-equipment industry or a strong member presence in their districts. Among this group were California Congressmen David Valadao (R-CA) and Mark Takano (D-CA). Two SEMA-member companies were eager to host their new congressmen—Valadao at KW Automotive North America in Sanger and Takano at K&N Engineering in Riverside. As a result of the visits, both Valadao and Takano joined the SEMA-supported Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus, a bipartisan group of lawmakers in Washington that recognizes the significant impact of the automotive industry on the American economy.
For the past 14 years, a coalition of lawmakers who support the specialty-equipment aftermarket and recognize our industry’s positive economic impact has been growing on Capitol Hill.