10/16/2007
Voters in five states are focusing their attention on upcoming elections that could be considered barometers for what to expect in the 2008 presidential election. We're keeping a close watch on the following 2007 campaigns, as state laws and regulations often have an immediate impact on small business.
Kentucky
Voters in Kentucky will cast their vote for governor in a tough race between Gov. Ernie Fletcher and Lt. Gov. Steve Beshear.
Louisiana
Louisiana voters will pick a new governor and members of the state Legislature. In the race to replace Kathleen Blanco as governor, NFIB-supported Bobby Jindal faces Foster Campbell, John Georges and Walter Boasso. Jindal is an NFIB Guardian Award winner, and has been a champion for small business while serving the 1st Congressional District of Louisiana.
UPDATE, Oct. 20: Jindal won the race with 54 percent of the vote and was elected governor.
Mississippi
Voters will choose a new governor and state legislature in Mississippi, with current Gov. Haley Barbour--a longtime friend and supporter of small business--running against John Arthur Eaves, though Barbour is expected to easily keep his seat.
New Jersey and Virginia
New Jersey and Virginia voters will select new members of their state legislatures at a time when these states are facing key issues in labor law, eminent domain and tax relief---significant issues to the state's small-business owners.
Review the list of candidates endorsed by the SAFE (Save America's Free Enterprise) Trust for New Jersey (7 KB, PDF) and Virginia (8 KB, PDF)
Getting more info
The NFIB state pages provide a wealth of information for voters, including voting records, endorsement lists and political news. Check out any of these state pages at http://www.NFIB.com/state abbreviation (example: www.NFIB.com/MS) for comprehensive campaign information. It's crucial that the voice of small business is heard at the ballot box, so don't forget to register to vote in your state's upcoming elections.
