The Small Business Rundown podcast recently featured discussions with NFIB political experts Tim Goodrich and Sharon Sussin on the outcomes of the recent elections and their implications for small businesses. With election results finalized, the podcast analyzed the impact of small business owners assuming governmental roles and provided insights into various ballot measures and policy forecasts nationwide.
Tim Goodrich, NFIB’s Vice President of State Government Relations, emphasized the effectiveness of having small business experience in engaging with lawmakers: “When we come in as NFIB, our state directors go and lobby, and they’re the voice of our members. It’s always helpful to have somebody they’re talking to that has run a small business and can talk about the impact of regulations or the impact of a new labor law. It makes the conversation easier,” Goodrich noted.
The discussions included Sharon Sussin, NFIB’s Senior National Political Director, who detailed NFIB’s endorsement process and elaborated on the performance of endorsed candidates in the recent electoral cycle. Sussin highlighted the significance of small business owners running for office to advocate on their behalf.
Goodrich also highlighted key ballot measures and NFIB’s involvement in various initiatives, examining the potential national impacts on small businesses. He expressed hope that election outcomes might ease inflation concerns and discussed state-specific issues, such as minimum wage, energy policies, and tax implications.
The podcast's fiftieth episode, titled "Small Business Electoral Wins & Legislative Outlook," is available for listeners to learn more about the policy landscape and potential benefits for small businesses stemming from surprise victories that may positively influence the economy.
Sharon Sussin and Tim Goodrich discussed the implications of these results in depth, with a particular focus on how elected small business owners can shape the economy to enhance business operations and sustainability.
The Wall Street Journal Editorial Board's op-ed suggested a correlation between the optimism of small business owners about the economy and a rise in NFIB’s November Optimism Index by eight points, marking the highest level since June 2021. This sentiment, coupled with unexpected electoral victories, may be advantageous for the small business sector.
