04/10/2008
CONTACT: Troy Nichols, 360-786-8675 or Tony Malandra, 415-664-9685
More than 96 percent of NFIB Members support change in the Governor's Mansion in November
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- Gearing up for one of the most critical election cycles for small business in decades, the National Federation of Independent Business today endorsed Dino Rossi for governor.
A special ballot of NFIB members was conducted the week of March 17, and the results couldn't be clearer -- small business owners in Washington are ready for a change in leadership in Olympia. More than 96 percent of NFIB members supported endorsing Rossi this November. Gov. Chris Gregoire received just 2.6 percent of the vote, with the remaining percentage undecided.
"Our members have spoken, and they couldn't be more clear or emphatic -- they're ready for Dino Rossi to move into the governor's mansion in Olympia," said NFIB/Washington State Director Troy Nichols. "As soon as our special ballot went out, our fax machine was jammed and our phone lines were ringing off the hook with members sending in their votes. Small business owners have been paying attention, and they know what's at stake this November."
"What's at stake is the small business environment in Washington and the ability for business owners not just to compete, but also to survive in this difficult economy. After the previous three and a half years, NFIB members are still laboring under one of the most expensive workers' compensation systems in the country. They're still waiting for healthcare reform that reduces burdensome regulations and increases access and affordability. They're still clamoring for a solution to our broken transportation system that will improve freight mobility and allow businesses to get their goods to market, instead of having them sit in traffic.
"Small businesses are also fearful of the future when it comes to taxes. The current governor has spent one of the largest state budget surpluses in history, increased spending by more than 33 percent, and now we're facing a $2.4 billion deficit next year. If spending can't be controlled, there's only one way to fill this budget hole -- with tax increases. Even House Speaker Frank Chopp has conceded that tax increases may be necessary next year. Given Governor Gregoire's affinity for a new state income tax, small business owners have reason to be fearful of giving her a second term.
"Small business owners realize that Rossi is the right candidate to turn Washington into an entrepreneurial state where all businesses have the opportunity to succeed, not just the Microsofts and the Boeings of the world. With his private sector experience, he knows firsthand what it's like to sign the front side of a paycheck. He will ease tax and regulatory burdens, and he'll work hard to change the culture of Olympia toward customer service. NFIB members are very excited about this campaign and are ready to work hard on his behalf."
