Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) hosted a roundtable with key small business stakeholders to discuss House Republicans’ commitment to supporting small businesses across America. The roundtable comes during National Small Business Week, a time to recognize the investment, hard work, and determination of American small business owners and celebrate the major role they play in the U.S. economy. 

Whip Emmer was joined by House Small Business Committee Chairman Roger Williams (R-Texas), Representatives Mark Alford (R-Mo.), Troy Downing (R-Mont.), Brian Jack (R-Ga.), Nick LaLota (R-N.Y.), Dan Meuser (R-Pa.), Derek Schmidt (R-Kan.), and Pete Stauber (R-Minn.).

The Members heard stakeholder perspective from representatives from the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, International Council of Shopping Centers, International Franchise Association, Intuit, National Association of Home Builders, National Association of REALTORS, National Federation of Independent Business, National Grocers Association, National Roofing Contractors Association, Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council, and Small Business Investor Alliance.


Minnesota small business leader and CEO of Lorenz Bus Service, Mike Canine, also participated in the discussion.

“Making up 99 percent of all businesses in America, small businesses are vital to our nation’s economy and serve as pillars in communities across the country,” said Whip Emmer. “I am thankful to have heard from small business stakeholder groups today, including one from Minnesota, on how Congress can deliver policies that help them grow and succeed.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and our work on the Committee is focused on helping them thrive,” said Chairman Williams. “Thank you to Majority Whip Emmer for inviting me to join today’s important conversation. I’m honored to be here to listen, learn, and discuss how we can continue delivering for Main Street America.”

“Running a successful small business means navigating a thousand challenges every day—from managing operations to adapting to complex regulations. That’s why having the right partners in government is essential,” said Mike Canine, CEO of Lorenz Bus Service. “Congressman Emmer understands what it takes to keep small businesses like mine moving forward. He’s been a steadfast champion for entrepreneurs and a vocal advocate for the motorcoach industry. I’m proud to participate in his Small Business Roundtable to help align our shared commitment to business success.”

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