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Understanding the Disconnect: Politicians and Small Business Owners

During the iconic 1992 presidential campaign, then-candidate Bill Clinton famously expressed, “I feel your pain,” in a heartfelt attempt to connect with voters and assure them that he truly understood their struggles. Since then, this sentiment of empathy has become a common phrase in political rhetoric. However, despite these well-intentioned statements, many voters, especially small business owners, often feel that such sentiments are superficial and do not genuinely align with their lived experiences.

The Plight of Small Business Owners

Small business owners form the backbone of our economy, yet many politicians seem detached from the reality of running these enterprises. Most lawmakers have never endured the anxiety of risking their life savings or the distress of failing to meet payroll for employees and their families.

This disconnect is exacerbated by the continuous onslaught of new regulations, burdensome taxes, and increased permit fees that threaten to overwhelm small business owners. As they navigate these treacherous waters, they often feel isolated and unheard in the political discourse.

A Shared Experience: George McGovern’s Story

One notable exception to this general trend among politicians is former U.S. Senator and presidential candidate George McGovern, a Democrat who experienced the hardships of small business ownership firsthand. In a poignant 1992 Wall Street Journal column titled “A Politician’s Dream is a Businessman’s Nightmare,” McGovern shared his experience managing a hotel and conference center in Connecticut, which ultimately led to bankruptcy.

He attributed his failure largely to a myriad of regulations enacted with the best intentions, yet lacking the foresight to understand the overwhelming burden they placed on small business owners. This experience profoundly changed McGovern’s perspective; he emerged as a passionate advocate for regulatory and lawsuit reform. “I … wish that during the years I was in public office, I had had this firsthand experience about the difficulties businesspeople face every day,” he lamented, encapsulating the yearning for a deeper connection between politicians and the struggles of small business owners.

The Overlooked Political Constituency

While politicians often proclaim their support for small businesses, it is clear that this vital constituency is frequently overlooked and misunderstood. Small business owners dedicate 12 to 16 hours a day to keep their businesses afloat, often sacrificing personal time and family life. They lack the bandwidth to campaign for political candidates or lobby elected officials, yet they consistently bear the brunt of tax hikes, fee increases, and cumbersome regulations.

Family-owned enterprises are particularly crucial to America’s economic landscape. According to 2024 data from Family Enterprise USA (FEUSA), the nation boasts around 32 million family businesses, which represent the largest private employer in the country. Together, they account for an astounding 83.3 million jobs and contribute approximately $7.7 trillion annually to the U.S. gross domestic product.

The Challenges of Succession in Family Business

In the political arena, small businesses make up about one-third of all establishments, defined as those with fewer than 500 employees, and many are family-owned. However, the generational survival of these businesses poses significant challenges: FEUSA reports that over 30% of family-owned businesses make it to the second generation, but only about 12% thrive into the third generation.

Yet, there are exceptional cases that illustrate the resilience of family-owned businesses. One such example is Pearson Packaging Systems, based in Spokane, which was founded in 1955.

A Legacy of Innovation: The Story of Pearson Packaging

Lefty Pearson, the founder, embarked on his journey by working with a brewery, where he diligently crafted handmade six-pack carrying containers. His innovative spirit led him to invent an automated “six-pack case erector” out of his garage, marking the genesis of a company that would evolve into a significant player in the industry.

Today, Pearson Packaging Systems manufactures state-of-the-art machines that form, pack, seal, and palletize boxes for prominent companies such as Dell, Procter & Gamble, and Coca-Cola. With a distribution of over 20,000 machines globally and an impressive workforce of 225 employees, the company enjoys annual revenues exceeding $100 million.

After Lefty’s passing in 1971, his capable wife, Alma, and daughter, Pam Senske, took the helm, guiding the company through its transitions. Pam emerged as a remarkable CEO who crafted a comprehensive benefits package to enhance work-life balance, ensuring employee loyalty and dedication. Michael, her son, took over in 2003, perpetuating the values instilled by his mother.

The Importance of Employee Dedication

Employee dedication, quality work, and a commitment to customer satisfaction are vital factors that contribute to the success of family-owned businesses. Their longstanding reputation for innovation and friendly service often translates into returning customers, which is essential for any enterprise.

Despite the immense significance of family-owned businesses in our economy, they often go unrecognized. This oversight is primarily due to their relentless focus on remaining competitive while managing family obligations.

Bridging the Gap: The Role of AI legalese decoder

In navigating these challenges, tools like the AI legalese decoder can be indispensable for small business owners. This innovative technology can help decipher complex legal documents, making it easier for business owners to understand the implications of regulations and legal requirements. By simplifying legal jargon, the AI legalese decoder empowers small businesses to make informed decisions, stay compliant with regulations, and advocate more effectively for their needs.

Moreover, this tool can facilitate better communication between small business owners and policymakers by translating the concerns and realities faced by entrepreneurs into language that resonates in political discussions.

Conclusion: A Call for Empathy in Politics

It would be beneficial for politicians to have firsthand experience of the challenges of maintaining a payroll, navigating onerous regulations, and contending with the unpredictability of business cycles and global competition. Only then might they authentically understand the adage of “feeling your pain.”

By fostering this essential connection and utilizing tools such as the AI legalese decoder, we can create a more empathetic political landscape that truly represents and supports the undeniable resilience of small business owners.

Don C. Brunell is a business analyst, writer, and columnist. He is a former president of the Association of Washington Business, the state’s oldest and largest business organization, and resides in Vancouver. For inquiries, contact [email protected].

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