Small Business Trust in Congress Soars Amid New Policies and Tariffs in 2025

In a recent survey conducted by the National Write Your Congressman (NWYC), small business owners have expressed a significant boost in their confidence towards Congress, marking the highest trust levels since 2018. This promising sentiment comes shortly after the new administration's first 100 days, as small business leaders voiced their opinions on key issues affecting their operations and economic stability.

Increased Trust and Optimism

Randy Ford, the President and COO of NWYC, noted a strengthened bond between small businesses and their governmental representatives. The Q1 2025 Index suggests that while optimism is pervasive among business owners, challenges such as inflation and tariffs loom large in the background. The survey's data illuminates the complexities of the relationship between government policies and their effects on small enterprises.

Ford stated, "Our members have been vocal about the challenges they face and the areas where they seek improvement. They are hopeful yet wary of how rising costs might affect their business viability."

The survey reveals that 85% of small business owners are grappling with increased material and operating costs due to inflation, an issue compounded by newly introduced tariffs.

Impact of New Tariffs

The implementation of new tariffs on foreign goods has been a significant change in the administration's economic policies. According to the survey, 36% of small business owners believe that these tariffs will benefit their businesses, while 19% are concerned about potential downsides. The remainder remains ambivalent.

Mark Solomon, President of Assurnet Insurance Agency, shared his apprehensions about the tariff impacts: "While I support boosting U.S. manufacturing, the immediate fallout could be detrimental for my clients. We need to be cautious as we navigate these changes."

Support for Efficiency in Governance

One aspect of the new administration that has found favor among business owners is the establishment of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). An overwhelming majority, 89%, cited reduced waste as a major achievement of the department. Business leaders expressed hope for lasting reforms that could alleviate bureaucratic red tape and enhance operational efficiency.

LaJeana Sapp, Co-Owner of Level Ride Manufacturing Co., emphasized the importance of maintaining these reforms: "It’s crucial for Congress to implement long-term protections against waste. It will create a more favorable business environment."

Key Concerns Moving Forward

As small business owners look ahead, they have pinpointed tax reforms, healthcare accessibility, compliance burdens, and immigration policies as essential issues for Congress to address in Q2. Inflation remains a top concern, affecting 85% of respondents, and placing additional pressure on their operations.

Mark Gaiser, Owner of Gaiser Comfort Solutions, remarked, "The rise in prices has been relentless, and these new tariffs may exacerbate the challenges we already face."

The broader perspective on the U.S. economy showed 55% of business owners rated it as “good,” while a quarter expressed strong optimism for their future prospects. James Bryant Boyd, Owner of J. Bryant Boyd Design-Build, asserted, "Despite the current challenges, our achievements last year reflect that dedication drives results."

Survey Methodology

The NWYC gathered insights through an online survey conducted from April 2 to April 22, 2025. The survey included participation from 790 business leaders across 48 states, where 56% of respondents led businesses with one to nine employees, and 40% employed ten to ninety-nine staff.

Conclusion

The overall findings of the NWYC Q1 2025 Index exemplify a blended sentiment of hope and caution among small business owners, as they navigate the complexities of a shifting economic landscape. As they advocate for their interests and adjust to evolving policies, their continued engagement with Congress remains crucial in determining their future success.

For more information on the National Write Your Congressman and the resources available for small businesses, visit www.nwyc.com.