NMMA - National Marine Manufacturers Association Inc.
11/10/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/10/2025 09:24
2025 Election Review: What New Governors Mean for the Business of Boating
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Last week's election results set the stage for new agendas and state-led policy changes that could impact marine manufacturers, boat dealers, and suppliers in the years ahead. As new leaders take office, keeping U.S. marine manufacturing strong will continue to require proactive engagement with both parties at the state and federal levels. NMMA is well positioned to continue supporting our members across state houses and federal offices through periods of change. As states prepare for new legislative sessions, NMMA is poised to continue addressing state and local wake sport restrictions, preventing onerous tax and titling requirements, and supporting infrastructure and access among other issues important to the marine industry.
In Virginia, Abigail Spanberger won the race to succeed Gov. Glenn Youngkin. Spanberger, a former U.S. representative, focused her campaign on the state's workforce pipeline, business competitiveness and infrastructure. She said Virginia must prepare students for "21st century jobs" through apprenticeships and technical training that connect schools and employers. She also called for more stable economic conditions so businesses can plan and grow.
Spanberger voiced support for investment in roads, ports, and inland waterways. With the Commonwealth's strong East Coast maritime position and a vibrant outdoor recreation culture, the marine industry will look to the new administration to maintain a business-friendly climate, alignment on environmental stewardship and recognition of the importance of lake, river, and ocean access for boaters and recreational anglers.
In New Jersey, Rep. Mikie Sherrill won the governor's race 56 percent to 43 percent. Sherrill campaigned on addressing the state's business climate by cutting wait times for permits, lowering some fees for companies, and addressing rising energy costs. At a manufacturing forum, she said current permit approval timelines are "unacceptable" for businesses that want to grow. She also called for stronger workforce training to support advanced manufacturing and innovation.
Sherrill is expected to continue investments in coastal resilience and infrastructure upgrades. These initiatives may offer new opportunities for marina enhancements, service yards, and shoreline access that support recreational boating and tourism. With the Discover Boating Atlantic City show in February, NMMA will work with New Jersey Marine Trades Association and industry partners to ensure the Governor and her new team are aware of the impact of the marine industry and its economic contributions to the state.
For NMMA members, these elections create new openings to introduce state leaders to the marine industry to ensure support for myriad critical business, environmental, infrastructure and access issues that are important to competitiveness and maintaining a strong, healthy business climate that supports marine manufacturers and businesses. NMMA looks forward to collaborating with our member companies and marine industry partners to advance our agenda before state executive leaders and legislatures.
For questions or to engage with NMMA's advocacy team, contact [email protected].
NMMA - National Marine Manufacturers Association Inc. published this content on November 10, 2025, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on November 10, 2025 at 15:25 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]