Chambers of commerce exist in every town and city in Ohio. The groups they represent vary greatly. In big cities, the local Chamber is usually dominated by the biggest companies, while in small- and medium-sized towns, small businesses are in control. In company towns, the Chamber of Commerce is essentially an arm of that company. At the state level, where the interests of all the Chambers throughout the state come together, it is possible for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce to lobby for things that are good for it biggest members at the expense of the interests of its smaller members.

From January 1, 2005 to June 30, 2007, chambers of commerce throughout Ohio contributed a total of $19,258 to current Ohio statewide officeholders and members of the General Assembly. ($4,770 to the House and $5,885 to the Senate).

January 1, 2005-June 30, 2007 Contributions to Ohio Statewide Officeholders, Ohio House and Senate, and Ohio Democratic and Republican Parties from Ohio Chambers of Commerce*

Ohio Senate	$5,885
Ohio House of Representatives	$4,770
Statewide Officeholders	$8,803
Ohio Republican Party	$150
Ohio Democratic Party	--
Totals	$19,608

*Totals include monetary and in-kind contributions from employees and political action committees associated with Ohio chambers of commerce

For detailed Chamber of Commerce contribution information, see the Appendices.