Small businesses say their number one concern is a skilled workforce — not tariffs: Kelly Loeffler

Group 1 - Small businesses are experiencing the highest level of optimism in seven years, with confidence above the 52-year average despite a recent government shutdown [1][2] - The economic environment is bolstered by President Trump's agenda, which includes tax cuts, deregulation, and fair trade, contributing to strong GDP growth and a decrease in inflation [2][3] - The upcoming holiday shopping season is projected to exceed $1 trillion, reflecting the positive impact of the current economic policies on small businesses [3] Group 2 - Small businesses express a desire for deregulation but face challenges with tariffs, which are harder to navigate compared to larger companies [4] - The majority of US manufacturers are small businesses, and they have historically been disadvantaged by unfair trade practices, which the current administration aims to rectify [5][6] - The primary concern for small businesses has shifted to finding a skilled workforce, as opposed to tariffs, indicating a focus on domestic production capabilities [6][7]