Business’ Critical Role in Supporting Democracy

America must come together to confront the formidable challenges we face or give into the division and tribalism that increasingly defines our nation. The choice is clear, and as an institution we bet on America to come together and prevail every time.

But that won’t happen magically. It will require the sustained efforts of a broad array of leaders and organizations. The business community has a critical role to play. And as we have for over 100 years, the U.S. Chamber will help lead that effort.

The bottom line: We condemn the rioters who stormed the Capitol yesterday, and those, including President Trump, whose words and actions gave fuel to the mob. There is no place for demagogues in our democracy. We also applaud those members, especially Majority Leader McConnell and Speaker Pelosi, who ensured that the work of Congress continued and the electoral college ballots were counted.

But we must go beyond words. The Chamber and our members will lend all assistance necessary to ensure a successful and peaceful transfer of power on January 20th, and to help President-elect Biden and the new Congress address the many challenges that confront our nation, most notably ending the pandemic that has killed more than 360,000 Americans, imperiled our economy, closed tens of thousands of small businesses, and put millions out of work.

Our take: As we have been saying for years, we need responsible and resolved governing to lead our nation. We also must strengthen the structures of our democracy. The business community must and will play a critical role in supporting the rule of law, fortifying democratic norms, and restoring trust in our institutions.

Join us: Tuesday, January 12, at the Chamber’s annual signature event, the State of American Business, our affiliate organization, the Center for International Private Enterprise (CIPE) will lead a special discussion about what actions the American business community can take to strengthen our democracy. In the coming weeks, months, and years our actions must rise to meet the urgent needs of our nation. Since 1983, CIPE has worked around the globe to support democracy. We must reapply some of the lessons we share with the world here at home.

America and the American business community are up to the task. Now it is time to get to back to work.