Remembering Tom

Any organization reflects the strength of its leadership, and Tom Donohue built the strongest and best business advocacy in Washington, D.C. It was my great privilege to work with Tom for over 20 years. Everyone knows—at the core— Tom's great strength was his honesty and ability to deal in a straightforward manner in all situations. He was a leader with principles, always striving for excellence in himself and those around him. While his achievements are inspiring, what is even more telling about the kind of individual he was, were his actions — what he personally did for so many people without any recognition whatsoever. He helped countless people with problems big and small, never expecting anything in return. He genuinely cared about people and wanted to help where he could. He was a true inspiration, and I will miss him deeply.

Agnes Warfield

I will always remember Tom’s bold and imaginative use of language. While he very effectively served as THE voice of American business, he had a voice and style that was entirely his own. He spoke in a way that made people stand up and listen, consider another point of view, and take action (usually to the benefit of business!). Having been privileged to work with him on hundreds of speeches over about a decade, I got an up-close look at what made him a master communicator: logical thinking, deep curiosity, big ideas, memorable stories, an endless list of Tom-isms that only Tom himself could come up with, and a personal mantra of doing everything with integrity and good manners. He was a fierce fighter with a sharp mind and a pure heart, and it shone through in all he said and did.

Courtney Felts

Tom was a builder whose work will endure for many years to come. He built teams, coalitions, campaigns, and, of course, the modern Chamber, and he did it all one person at a time. His genuine interest in and concern for others was the key ingredient in all his building. He’d call you to his office with a conspiratorial air — “Get in, shut the door” — and you’d have 30 seconds to tell him what to do about some mess. You’d give him five paragraphs of talkers, and then he’d scrawl an illegible sentence of his own on the back of the envelope that was better still. Whatever the crisis, he could almost always keep our opponents on the defensive. He had a protean gift for the personal side of management, enjoining the staff to “be your own CEO,” or he’d spend a month focusing on something like “speed” or “execution.” I remember he called me (from Mexico somehow) when my first son was born, and his chief comment was to reassure me that “They don’t break.” (Useful information). He was a man of the world, and he demonstrated what it meant to be true to his principles, from the Constitution to Alinsky’s Rules for Radicals (well, some of them) to the Beatitudes. His counsel was sought and heard in many a foreign capital, but more than anything else, he was “a freeborn man of the USA.”

John Murphy

Elaine and I were saddened to learn of the passing of our good friend, Tom Donohue. Around Washington and across the country, so many people will remember Tom as exactly that: a friend. And no doubt, that is what Tom would prefer. But those fortunate to call Tom a friend also knew a visionary leader, an extraordinary advocate, and a tireless builder of coalitions whose transformative work left the U.S. Chamber, the broader business community, and our entire nation stronger. Job creators and entrepreneurs across America could hope for no greater partner than Tom. He was a seasoned navigator of the halls of power and a clearinghouse for professional connections who turned the Chamber into an unmatched champion of American enterprise. Today, our prayers are with the entire Donohue family as they mourn an incredible life.

Sen. Mitch McConnell

I've had the privilege to work with incredibly influential leaders throughout my career, but Tom Donohue has been one of the most impactful. His legendary commitment to defending free enterprise and the rule of law has been transformative, especially when confronting our broken legal system. It was through Tom's leadership that the legal reform community coalesced and helped enact historic reforms to class action litigation. It was through Tom's leadership that shined a bright spotlight on trial lawyer abuses that millions of Americans witnessed. And it was Tom's leadership that gave us the strength to fight for this important cause and has inspired others to do the same. He will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

Harold Kim

Tom's steadfast commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities through his leadership at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has left a lasting impact. His ability to bring together diverse voices, his tireless advocacy for business interests, and his unwavering belief in the power of free enterprise inspired countless individuals and organizations. Tom was more than a leader; he was a mentor and a champion for progress. His legacy will continue to influence future generations of leaders and innovators. Rest in peace, Tom. Your contributions will not be forgotten, and your example will continue to guide us all.

Jenna Shrove

Through sheer force of will and boundless generosity of spirit, Tom Donohue transformed the Chamber from a building on H Street into America's most powerful voice for free enterprise. He understood that commerce wasn't just about profit—it was about possibility. From loading docks to marbled halls, he championed businesses of every size, opened new frontiers through trade, and mentored a generation of leaders. In every American success story to come, there echoes the legacy of Tom Donohue. His generous spirit touched countless lives, including mine. Tom will be missed.

Michael Carney

We have lost a titan of the business community and of the transportation infrastructure world. Like so many of us, Tom touched my life and guided me to grow personally and professionally. What a life well lived!

Edward Mortimer

A great man and a legendary leader. So many fond memories of doing battle with Tom on behalf of free enterprise and business. I count myself extremely lucky to have continued to benefit from Tom's presence, wisdom, and wit by serving with him on the board of CIPE up until this very sad news. Tom will be greatly missed, but thankfully his spirit, grit, and goodness will live on through the many he mentored and helped throughout his storied career. RIP Tom. God speed.

Karen Kerrigan

America has lost one of the most passionate advocates for free enterprise. Tom was a powerful voice for all businesses, employers, and their employees. His time as President and CEO of the American Trucking Associations cemented his unyielding commitment to our industry. He was a persuasive leader, a personal mentor to me, and a dear friend. Tom leaves the world better than when he entered it.

Chris Spear

Tom was the type of leader that imprints on you. I had the pleasure of working the first decade of my career under his leadership at the Chamber. One of the stories he used to tell was how he would pass the same bagel cart each morning and place 50 cents at the window to support the vendor but never take a bagel. One morning, the owner said, "Bagels are now 75 cents" (or whatever the new price was). From then on, he placed the new amount each day (again without taking a bagel). He recounted that story as a lesson that you’ll never get more unless you ask for it. I am sure I got details wrong, and I don’t tell it with the same panache—but I often think of that when looking for that inner bravado to do something gutsy. Just one of the many ways he imprinted on me. He truly was a force - and he will be missed.

Brent Inscoe

Tom Donohue did more than change this world for the better. He showed others how to do the same—how they, too, could make a difference with their lives and leadership. Today, there are millions of Americans who enjoy meaningful employment and economic security because of the work that Tom undertook, most notably during his storied leadership of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Tom could command the attention of presidents and prime ministers, of CEOs and media moguls. When he spoke, they listened. But it was his actions outside of the spotlight that revealed his true character. His compassion and his care for his fellow human—that’s what distinguished him. There are countless individuals who have benefited from Tom’s empathy and instinctive desire to help. My family is among them; we have been recipients of his care and concern on more than one occasion. He lent a hand before you’d even have a chance to ask.

Jay Timmons

Not only was Tom a powerful advocate for the business community, but he helped shape U.S. domestic and foreign policy. He was well-respected in D.C. and with international leaders, not only for his wisdom but also because of his grace, good humor, and kindness. Tom was a force of nature, and we at Shell are deeply thankful for all that he did while at the Chamber. His indelible impact is still being felt today.

Gretchen H. Watkins

I am deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Donohue’s passing. He was not only an extraordinary businessman, but also a remarkable friend and family man. His belief in hard work and surrounding himself with smart, talented people was an inspiration to all who knew him. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his wisdom, generosity, and leadership. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and many friends during this difficult time.

Theo Harding

My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Thomas J. Donohue and to the entire team at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. I have known Tom for almost two decades, and his legacy as a business leader and advocate for the American business community is remarkable. His tireless efforts to ensure that business had a strong voice in Washington and his ability to balance toughness with compassion set him apart as a true leader. His impact will be felt for generations to come. My thoughts are with all those mourning his loss.

Monica Dorhoi

Tom Donohue accomplished a lot of extraordinary things in his life. His achievements have been recognized by heads of state, the world’s largest business alliance, Global CEOs, military Service Chiefs, multiple White Houses, and public officials across the aisle, across the nation, and across the world. He was a fierce advocate for the business community and a patriot who loved America and what she stands for. Yet, in my opinion, Tom’s greatest accomplishment is one that is unheard, unseen, and untold. And it is one that will have a rippling effect for years to come. His greatest contribution to our country is the immeasurable impact he made on hundreds of individual leaders, like me. It is Tom Donohue’s legacy of service. And it will be realized for decades to come in the countless contributions of every leader he touched—every corporate executive, every government official, and every nonprofit leader, who he mentored, coached, and supported—with ferocity and dedication. I will miss him.

Kevin Schmiegel

I will never forget a leadership lesson TJD taught me by example. I was Chamber staff at the time, and while on a trip to Asia, I had inadvertently offended an influential local when trying to shield Tom from what I thought was an unwelcome intrusion. He took me aside and said, "You guys are my gladiators and look out for me but I need you to go apologize and set things straight." He could have chewed me out and made me feel terrible for the mistake like so many other people in his position might have done. Instead, Tom assumed good intentions and gave me a chance to fix things. I am forever grateful and loyal to him.

Josh Knights

I met Tom when he visited Viking Freight GO some 35 years ago. He was a gentleman and one who always attempted to initiate and protect American Commerce. He came from humble origins in New York City and I felt an immediate respect for Tom as he filled us in on the activities of his office. May he RIP.

Peter Foley

It was an honor, a privilege, and a pleasure to know Tom Donohue and get the chance to work for him. He was a larger-than-life figure and had a huge impact on the people and the world around him. I learned more from him than I could begin to describe. RIP Tom Donohue, you will be sorely missed.

Todd Wincup

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Tom Donohue—an unwavering champion of American free enterprise who played an instrumental role in many of the country’s most consequential public policy decisions. Tom was a terrific ally of Business Roundtable, and we are honored to have worked with him throughout his remarkable, decades-long career in our nation’s capital. Like so many others in Washington, I personally found in Tom a treasured mentor, counselor, and friend. Our thoughts are with Tom’s family and the whole U.S. Chamber community.

Joshua Bolten

Tom Donohue was the gold standard for what it means to be a leader, influencing an entire generation of political, business, and association executives. Beneath the occasionally gruff, growling, and competitive exterior was a loving, soft-hearted, and fiercely loyal soul. I will miss our conversations, his insights, and his guidance. Tom led by example, always striving to do more for those around him and giving back generously, selflessly, and without consideration for credit or visibility. He and his wife Liz touched thousands of people throughout their lives, and each of us, in our own way, is better for it. My condolences to his family and to many friends at the Chamber of Commerce and business community who have lost a father, grandfather, and legend in Tom Donohue.

Matthew Shay

We lost one of the truly good guys: a mentor, friend, and guiding star. I’m so grateful for his positive impact, personally and professionally. There was no line in between. Tom taught me to be true to my values, authentic always, and to put my family and faith above all. I know God is smiling and welcoming you, Tom. An abundance of love, light, blessings, and comfort to the many who mourn your passing.

Alisha White

Sad to hear. He was extremely good at the art of fundraising and we will all miss him greatly. Prayers to his family, fellow Chamber staff (past and present) and all who knew him.

Heather Stietzel

Tom’s leadership, insight, wit, and pragmatism extended far beyond the boardroom and C-suites, reaching the main streets of America. His enduring commitment to academia—including his role as Executive in Residence at Marymount and his efforts in developing the next generation of the workforce—will leave a lasting impact for years to come. I had the privilege of knowing him for 30 years and benefiting from his invaluable counsel.

Damon Porter

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Tom Donohue, a true champion of business and an example of effective and impassioned leadership. During his time as the head of the U.S, Chamber, he was thoughtful, gracious, and respected by myself and other state chambers whom he worked so closely with. Tom’s energy and love for free enterprise was as contagious as it was effective in his advocacy on behalf of private sector employers across the country. Tom will be sorely missed.

Heather Mulligan

Such a loss for our community. I was privileged to meet him on several occasions, even in my junior years he was always welcoming, encouraging, and inspiring. He is missed.

John Dickerman

It was a privilege to know Thomas J. Donohue, and I join so many in the Chamber and Association community in mourning his passing. He was a role model to many, including me, and a powerful voice for the U.S. business community. I learned much from watching him lead and inspire others. RIP Tom Donahue. May the road rise to greet you.

Gary LaBranche

Tom inspired and taught all levels of Chamber staff during his tenure. I've always felt fortunate to be part of that staff early in my career and observe his brilliance in communication, persuasion, and the art of plain speaking. He was an absolute force and will continue to be admired and remembered.

Catherine Taylor

I am sad to learn of his passing. He was an inspiring leader, mentor, and friend. He exemplified integrity and compassion. He bravely spoke truth to power. He believed that if it was possible to help someone in need, then he must do it. His example will continue to inspire others.

Ron Bird

An American legend. Unable to satisfactorily document his contributions to American business, the Chamber, National Security, and moving faster and working harder to build a more effective world. Rest in peace, sir. You made a difference.

William Evanina

Deeply saddened to hear Tom passed away. He was an example to so many, clear and forceful in representing his members, a great advocate for the benefits of fair and free trade and a wonderful, valued friend of Ireland and the transatlantic ties that bind. May Tom Rest in Peace.

Mark Redmond

Tom was such a force. He had an incredible impact on my earliest career days, and I am especially grateful for the years I spent at the U.S. Chamber under his leadership.

Amy Rogers

It was truly an incredible honor to work for Tom and learn so much from him during my time at the Chamber. The opportunity he gave so many of us is still impactful on both my career and personal life today. He was an extraordinary man and leader at a time when it was so greatly needed.

Theresa Brown Kuhns

So saddened to learn of Tom’s passing. He was larger than life—intelligent, practical, personal, and relatable. He embodied everything his role at the Chamber required and then some. A true giant has passed. Thank you, Tom.

Jeff Tucker

Tom was someone to admire and emulate, someone of noble intentions and character. Known as a fierce defender of the business community, we should not overlook the fact that he was a dedicated husband and father. To him, family was always the priority, and to Tom, you did not have to be of blood to be family. He was a rarity.

Michael Hershman

Tom, what a life. Thank you for touching the lives of all around in known and unknown ways. An honor and a privilege to have worked for you. Peace be with the Donohue family.

Edith Naegele

When you were around Tom Donohue, you got the idea that anything was possible. He had a blend of enthusiasm, hard work and determination. What’s more he cared about those who worked with him and for him. What a legacy. My best wishes to his family on their loss.

Patrick Burns

In my years as Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, some of my most memorable moments were those I spent with Tom Donahue. He was a staunch ally of ours and truly a force to be reckoned with.

Michael Furst