Fighting for small businesses

My first job was in my mom’s small business, and I understand how important small businesses are to the economy and to local communities.

I have spoken with many small business owners about their struggles in recent years; rising costs, fallout from the pandemic, lack of access to capital, and uncertainty caused by tariffs are threatening the survival of too many businesses. We must provide them more support and focus on bipartisan solutions to improve their likelihood of success, including the removal of unnecessary restrictions that limit what credit unions can do to serve their small business customers.

Throughout my career, I have been a champion of improving access to capital for small businesses and enhancing opportunities for entrepreneurs who are often left behind - women and veteran business owners, rural businesses, and entrepreneurs of color. I have led legislation to expand access to federal contracting opportunities for traditionally underserved business owners and to bridge the funding gap for businesses owned by members of Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color.

When I visit and speak with the workers and owners of family farms, artisan shops, manufacturers, theaters, wineries, craft breweries, and other diverse small businesses in NW Oregon, I am inspired by their creativity and resilience. I will continue to stand with and be a voice for small businesses.