06/19/2007
With five states holding elections this fall, NFIB is gearing up for another active political season--and a chance to help the voice of small business be heard at the ballot box.
Over the next several months and into next year, NFIB will monitor the races and issues that matter to your business and let you know how you can make a difference. The following are some of the races already heating up around the country:
2007
In Louisiana, where Gov. Kathleen Blanco announced that she would not seek reelection, U.S. Rep. Bobby Jindal--and NFIB Guardian Award winner--is leading the race to replace her. In Mississippi, incumbent Gov. Haley Barbour is expected to be reelected with ease. And in Kentucky, Gov. Ernie Fletcher faces a tough reelection against Lt. Gov. Steve Beshear.
Voters in Louisiana, New Jersey and Virginia will chose among candidates for the state legislature as these states face key issues in labor law, eminent domain and tax relief--all of which have a significant effect on the small-business community.
In Georgia's 10th Congressional District, a special election was held June 19 to elect the late U.S. Rep. Charles Norwood's successor. However, no candidate received the majority of the vote and a runoff election will be held July 17.
2008
In 2008, 11 states will vote for governor, 34 will vote for senator and all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives will be on the ballot. NFIB will keep a close eye on the pro-small-business candidates in these races, including NFIB Guardian of Small Business award winners Ted Stevens (AK), Jeff Sessions (Ala.), Saxby Chambliss (Ga.), Larry Craig (ID), Pat Roberts (Kan.), Mitch McConnell (Ky.), Susan Collins (ME), Norm Coleman (Minn.), Thad Cochran (Miss.), Elizabeth Dole (N.C.), Chuck Hagel (Neb.), John Sununu (N.H.), Pete Domenici (N.M.), Jim Inhofe (Okla.), Gordon Smith (Ore.), Lindsey Graham (S.C.), Lamar Alexander (Tenn.), John Cornyn (TX), John Warner (Va.) and Mike Enzi (Wyo.)
It's crucial that small-business owners stand up for the candidates who will stand up for them. NFIB offers several resources to help you stay informed, such as How Congress Voted and state voter guides. Also, stayed tuned to NFIB.com's 2007-2008 Political Outlook for more information on the campaigns to watch for the upcoming election season.
