Detroit City Wire

Suzanne P. Clark, President and CEO of the US Chamber, delivered the annual 'State of American Business' address on January 16. The theme was that business is fundamentally local. "The State of American Business is local because businesses serve people where they are," Clark stated. She emphasized that regardless of where a company or product originates, its impact remains local.

With a new Congress and president in office, Clark highlighted areas needing attention from Washington, aligning with priorities from the Detroit Regional Chamber.

Clark called for reducing excessive regulation imposed by the Biden administration, which she argued has hindered economic growth locally and nationally. The Detroit Regional Chamber opposes several actions by the Biden administration such as bans on LNG exports and non-compete agreements.

Clark urged Congress to find bipartisan solutions for expiring provisions in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, including deductions for qualifying pass-through income and expanded child credits.

She also addressed tariffs used politically, noting their significant effects on local economies like vehicle production and school supplies. "The bottom line is this: tariffs are a tax paid by Americans, and their broad and indiscriminate use would stifle growth at the worst possible time," said Clark.

Clark concluded that focusing on these areas will help Washington foster an environment where local businesses can thrive. The path to a stronger economy begins locally, with action needed now.