Virginia business owners: Trump’s economic plans ‘dangerous’

A group of Virginia business owners are taking issue with Donald Trump’s economic plans and his record of profiting at the expense of others.

Claus Ihlemann of Norfolk, owner of Decorum Furniture: “As a business owner and activist in the Norfolk community, I have seen first-hand the impact a strong economy has on the health of our businesses and communities. That’s why I’m very worried about the prospect of a Donald Trump presidency, as Trump continues to root for economic instability because he hopes it will benefit his businesses at the expense of our economy. Hillary Clinton has the knowledge, experience, and steady temperament we need to strengthen the economy, raise incomes, and support small businesses. I’m going to work hard to help elect Hillary and avoid a Trump recession.”

Dan Akerson of McLean, former Chairman and CEO of General Motors, former CEO of Nextel and former Chairman and CEO of General Instrument, who earlier served as a Surface Warfare Officer in the U.S. Navy: “Since my time at the Naval Academy and service in the Navy, I have consistently voted for Republicans for President. Serving as the leader of the free world requires effective leadership, sound judgment, a steady hand and most importantly, the temperament to deal with crises large and small. Donald Trump lacks each of these characteristics. Hillary Clinton has the experience and judgment to serve as an effective Commander in Chief. In this election, I will cast my ballot for Secretary Clinton.”

Toan Trong Nguyen of Charlottesville, owner of C’ville Coffee and co-founder of the Community Investment Collaborative: “As an immigrant and small business owner who now helps others in my community achieve the American Dream, I understand first-hand the struggles many working families face and how we must all play a role in creating America’s future. While Donald Trump has shown that he will only look out for himself, often at the expense of others, and has presented dangerous ideas that would destroy our economy, Hillary Clinton believes that we are stronger together and will create an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top. She is the champion we need in the White House.”

Mike Hamlar of Roanoke, entrepreneur and small business owner: “As a small business owner in Roanoke, I am terrified about the prospect of Donald Trump becoming President of the United States and the impact that would have on family businesses and workers’ incomes. Our country needs steady leadership from a president who will work across the aisle to raise wages and help families get ahead. I believe Hillary Clinton is that leader and as president she will create more good-paying jobs and provide greater economic security for working families. The choice is clear.”