Democratic National Convention Preview: What’s in It for Small Business?

Date: July 25, 2016

As Hillary Clinton snags the Democratic Party’s nomination for president, the party will unveil its platform on key issues including taxes, minimum wage, and healthcare.

The Democratic Party is paving the way for Hillary Clinton—and setting the stage for a platform that will define her stance on key issues.

At the end of the four-day Democratic National Convention, which kicks off today in Philadelphia, the Democratic Party will nominate Clinton as its official nominee. That will make her the first woman in U.S. history to represent a major party in a presidential election.

GET THE LATEST ELECTION NEWS—AND SEE HOW IT IMPACTS YOUR SMALL BUSINESS. 

The days leading up to the convention already provided a flurry of activity: Clinton announced Tim Kaine as her running mate on July 23. The next day, Debbie Wasserman Schultz stepped down as the chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee following an email leak scandal

After a hotly contested Democratic primary, Sen. Bernie Sanders is scheduled to speak on the first night of the convention and is expected to deliver a message on the importance of party unity.

Sanders’ influence goes beyond his pledged delegates and extends to the Democratic Party’s platform, which defines the party’s stance on an array of policies for the next four years. The party’s recently released platform, which is getting labeled as their most progressive platform ever, gives a sneak peek at Democrats’ plans on key small business issues.

The platform calls for a $15 minimum wage—a position touted by Sanders during the primary and later adopted by Clinton—and 12 weeks of paid family leave, which have been points of contention for small business owners across the country.

Democrats are also seeking to close tax loopholes that give corporations tax breaks and make sure “the wealthiest Americans and largest corporations must pay their fair share in taxes,” according to the document. And in stark contrast to Republicans who seek to repeal Obamacare, Democrats hope to expand the Affordable Care Act, which has been a top concern of small business owners since its passage.

Each night of the convention features a different theme. The four themes in order are: “United together: putting families first,” “A lifetime of fighting for children and families,” “Working together: a clear choice,” and “Stronger together.” 

In addition to Sanders, President Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama are among the political leaders scheduled to speak. Several celebrities, including Debra Messing and Lena Dunham, will also speak.

*Note: This news coverage does not equate to an endorsement of any candidate by NFIB.

Photo credit: Gage Skidmore

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