Tom Donohue, Former Chamber CEO, and His Impact on Business Lobbying

Tom Donohue's Passing and His Impact

Tom Donohue, who led the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for more than two decades before retiring in 2021, has died, as announced by the business lobbying giant on Monday. The Chamber represents big business in Washington, spending more money than anyone else on federal lobbying and operating out of an ornate building opposite the White House.

A Transformative Leadership

Donohue took over the Chamber in 1997 after 13 years at the American Trucking Association, becoming the face and voice of the organization during a pivotal time for big business. He steered the organization through high-profile policy battles.

• Resurrection of the Chamber: The Chamber stated, "It is no exaggeration to say he resurrected the Chamber, taking the institution from good to great and from productive to powerful — and standing up for business from the nation's capital to every corner of the globe."
• High Energy and Integrity: His leadership was characterized by high energy and absolute integrity.

Controversies and Legacy

However, scandal preceded Donohue's departure as he announced in 2019 that he would be stepping down just before The Wall Street Journal published an article about his use of corporate jets provided by the Chamber for professional and personal use.

He handed the presidency to his protégé, Suzanne P. Clark, but remained CEO until his retirement in 2021. Even post-retirement, Donohue stayed active with the Chamber, serving as an adviser and board member. He also contributed to other boards such as the Hudson Institute and the Center for International Private Enterprise.

Clark shared that Donohue was a "phone-a-friend" for those in need of guidance, stating, "The country lost a great patriot. The business community lost a powerful champion. And I lost my mentor and one of my best friends."