UPDATE: Billionaire Kelly Loeffler, chief of the Small Business Administration, is facing intense scrutiny after her controversial claim that small business owners are thriving like never before under the Trump administration. During an appearance on Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures, Loeffler asserted, “I don’t think small business owners have ever been so excited to pay their taxes, thanks to President Trump.”
Loeffler’s remarks come amid a backdrop of mixed economic signals, as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reported a record high in small business confidence for the third quarter of 2025. However, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) revealed that its Small Business Optimism Index barely surpassed its long-term average in November, raising questions about the accuracy of Loeffler’s optimism.
The Small Business Administration chief attributed this optimism to the Trump administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, now known as the Working Families Tax Cut Act. She emphasized that the act has provided “certainty over what their tax rates are gonna be,” claiming it has fostered a “small business boom.”
Despite her assertions, many small business owners voiced their skepticism online. Commenters on social media reacted sharply, with one stating, “Said no small business ever,” while another lamented the burden of higher taxes amidst rising costs and tariffs.
While Loeffler argues that tax provisions are beneficial, NFIB surveys indicate that concerns around inflation, escalating costs, and labor shortages are top of mind for many entrepreneurs. Loeffler’s comments have been perceived as overly optimistic, especially in light of ongoing economic challenges.
Adding fuel to the fire, recent reports revealed that Loeffler and her husband, Jeffrey Sprecher, purchased a $30 million home in Georgia, leading critics to question her connection to the average small business owner.
As the debate intensifies, small business owners are left to navigate an uncertain economic landscape. The situation remains fluid, and many are closely monitoring how these developments will affect their operations and financial stability moving forward.
Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to unfold.
