Economic and Policy Perspectives with Dan Varroney | October 30, 2026
A business owner’s next investment can become an employee’s next opportunity. That connection belongs at the center of how we judge economic policy and the candidates asking for our vote.
Hinton Howell of Hinton Lumber wanted to invest in automation and develop his employees so he could pay them well and help them provide more for their families. Better equipment and stronger skills can improve productivity and create room for better pay. But the investment has to make economic sense.
In my new Washington Examiner op-ed, I make the case for preserving equipment investment incentives, requiring timely permitting decisions and strengthening dependable energy. These choices affect the owner considering expansion, the employee hoping to advance and the family looking for a good job close to home.
Our children and grandchildren deserve opportunities worthy of their talents. The decisions we make today help determine whether they can build a business, a career and a future of their own.
Business and association leaders: what policy change would most help you or your members move the next investment forward?
Your next conference should help leaders turn economic uncertainty into better decisions about investment, hiring and growth. Explore Dan’s small-business keynote and economic outlook keynote. To discuss bringing that perspective to your audience, check speaking availability. Please include your organization, event date, audience and topic.
Music: “News Theme” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), licensed under CC BY 4.0. Edited excerpts with volume adjustment and fades.