A few months ago, Thumbtack.com shared some data with us about small business owners and their perspective on the economy. They've now produced another survey polling small business owners yet again. I think this is important because a majority of new job creation comes with the growth of small businesses. It's testament to the fact that the US has a diverse economy composing of many economic interests and values.
The survey included a number of questions, and I have to say the results caught me by surprise. I want to focus on two questions in particular. The first question of interest to me is the following.
How important are the following issues to the success of your business?
The choices ranged across a wide spectrum of issues. Tax rates and tax-related regulations placed as the highest item of interest, followed closely by health care costs. Neither of those on their own bring too much surprise to me until I come to this next question.
Independent of who you are voting for, which candidate do you believe is more supportive of small business?
Barack Obama beats out Mitt Romney 39% to 31%. In the wake of higher tax rates for $250K+ earners, considering most S-corps file as individuals, and also in the wake of Obamacare's regulation, this really surprised me. I have to confess that I'm really scratching my head over this, because I can't imagine how either would help any small business grow.
The most disturbing aspect of this I take away involves the thought that business owners may view a cozy relationship with government as the more likely avenue of success over producing affordable products and services. Let's hope we haven't reached that point.
You can view the entire survey here: Small Business Political Survey
