What gives a small-business owner the confidence to invest and hire?
Dan Varroney joined JT on October 6, 2026, on WERC’s Alabama’s Morning News to discuss tax incentives, regulatory relief, permitting and access to capital ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The conversation examines what business owners need from the next Congress to make commitments beyond the election.
The conditions that help Main Street grow
An equipment purchase depends on available cash. An expansion depends on a workable permit. A new hire depends on confidence that the business can sustain the commitment. Dan explains how equipment expensing can support cash flow, how compliance requirements absorb limited staff time, and why affordable credit and consistent rules matter for growth.
The interview also covers Dan’s perspective on Federal Reserve policy and the opportunities for entrepreneurs. His central argument: policies that help small businesses invest and serve customers can strengthen job creation and the opportunities available to working families.
Interview chapters
- 0:00 Introduction: Congress and Main Street
- 0:45 Tax incentives and investment
- 1:17 Equipment expensing and cash flow
- 2:05 Regulatory costs and small-business resources
- 2:54 Credit, interest rates and the Federal Reserve
- 3:49 Priorities for the next Congress
- 4:47 Entrepreneurship and the path forward
Dan Varroney is an economic growth strategist, author, small-business advocate and media contributor, and the founder and CEO of Potomac Core. Explore Dan’s background, his books and speaking topics for business and association leaders.
For business leaders and trade association executives: which change would most help you or your members move an investment or hiring decision forward? I would welcome your perspective.
Browse more media interviews or request Dan for an interview or leadership event. You can also watch this WERC interview on YouTube.