Trump supporters: it's about business
In the run-up to the upcoming election, some Trump voters have said they support him primarily for economic reasons, particularly for tax and business policies that align with their financial goals. Historically, Trump has promoted a pro-business stance, highlighted by tax cuts for corporations and high-income earners, which many small and medium-sized business owners say helps keep their businesses competitive. “We’ve been able to expand our operations under Trump,” shared James Bradley, a manufacturing business owner in Ohio. “The tax breaks meant we could hire more staff.”
But with recent projections from economists, including some once seen as favoring Trump’s economic approach, there is a shifting tone. Several economists have recently voiced support for the economic policies proposed by Kamala Harris, who emphasizes job creation through green energy investment and sustainable economic development strategies. A significant number of economic analysts suggest her proposed policies could bolster the economy by expanding job sectors that rely on clean energy and technology. According to Harris’s supporters, her plans aim to modernize American infrastructure and create new opportunities for industries often overlooked in traditional manufacturing-based policies.
With economists turning toward Harris, many Trump-supporting business owners appear less vocal. Some analysts suggest that this quietness reflects an underlying tension. "Business owners who feel a necessity to support Trump for tax purposes are now being confronted with economic reports suggesting Harris’s approach may actually stimulate broader economic growth,” stated Dr. Lisa Hammond, a professor of economic policy at Georgetown University. “It’s creating a pause for some, but it doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll change their vote.”
For some business-focused voters, this shift in expert opinion may signal an inflection point. Yet, as of now, few have openly declared a shift in political allegiance, perhaps due to uncertainty or concerns about immediate tax implications if policies change. Others are concerned about potential regulatory increases under Harris. One voter, speaking anonymously, said, “Even if Harris’s economic plan is good long-term, small businesses like mine can’t afford more regulation right now.”
The Wall Street Journal, AP News, Reuters, The Economist, Georgetown University Economic Policy Review, The New York Times.