Hope on the Horizon: Prioritizing Small Business Growth in the 119th Congress
2025-02-05
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Source: Congress.gov
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Good morning, everyone, and I want to now call the Committee on Small Business to order. Without objection, the Chair is authorized to declare a recess of the Committee at any time. I now recognize myself for my opening statement. Welcome to the first Committee on Small Business hearing of the 119th Congress.
I want to extend my gratitude to our witnesses for being here also today, and I know many of you traveled to share your experiences with us and your perspectives, and we deeply value your time and your voice. The Committee on Small Business is proud to represent the hardworking men and women of Main Street America here in Washington. Our mission today and every day is to listen, learn, and better understand the challenges and the opportunities impacting the American people, particularly those who build and sustain small businesses nationwide. Small business owners are not just entrepreneurs, they are job creators, community leaders, and the backbone of economic opportunity for millions of Americans. Small business ownership reflects the very essence of the American dream, the opportunity for any person from any background to take a risk, work hard, and build a better future for themselves and their families. Our economy depends on small businesses and the workers they employ, from local manufacturers to retail employees, service workers and bankers. They are the heartbeat of our economy, shaping our communities through their dedication, creativity, and resilience. Over the past four years, Main Street America has faced historic challenges, stifling regulations, record-breaking inflation, supply chain disruptions, high interest rates, and a national labor shortage. Despite these challenges, the men and women of Main Street have proven time and time again their strength and ability to adapt. These individuals embody the grit, the innovation, and perseverance that make the nation great. So this Congress, alongside President Trump, will once again prioritize policies that support Main Street America, strengthen economic opportunity, and create an environment where small businesses can grow and create jobs. Today, we celebrate the critical role each small business plays in building and sustaining their communities. We look forward to hearing from our witnesses on how increased small business optimism and a promising economic landscape will help Main Street America. There is hope on the horizon for small businesses thanks to President Trump's pro-business commitment to lowering taxes and cutting regulations. It is time to turn the page on the past four years and focus on the future for Main Street America under President Trump.
I wanted this hearing to be the first of the 119th Congress so we could shine a light on the great contributions and sacrifices of Main Street America, those who dedicate their days, their resources, and lives to make our nation strong. Before we proceed, I'd like to extend a warm welcome to the new members joining the committee. We are thrilled to have you as part of our team and look forward to working with you in this Congress. As chairman, I'm eager to work alongside all of you as we help shape policies that put the needs of Main Street America first. Now with that, yield to our distinguished and my friend ranking member from New York, Ms.
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Velasquez. Good morning. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And again, I want to express our condolences to you. And, you know, we have you and your family and our thoughts and prayers. Good morning. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for holding this important hearing. And thank you to the witnesses for being here today. In just four short years, 22 million Americans took the leap of faith and started a small business a record high for a single presidential term. Our nation saw an unprecedented small business boom and economic comeback in the face of an equally unprecedented global pandemic and recession.
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