How the Government Shutdown Is Hurting Small Businesses — and What Washington Must Do Next

In this episode of Main Street Matters, Elaine Parker and the Washington Examiner's Rachel Schilke break down the real-world impact of the government shutdown on small businesses nationwide. They discuss how delayed federal loans, halted contracts, and economic uncertainty are straining local communities and entrepreneurs. The conversation also explores the political gridlock in Washington, its ripple effects on Main Street, and why bipartisan action is urgently needed to protect America’s small business economy.

Read Rachel's Work HERE | https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/rachel-schilke/

Chapters
00:00 The Impact of Government Shutdown on Small Businesses
02:54 The Role of the Small Business Administration During the Shutdown
05:47 Ripple Effects on Local Economies and Communities
08:13 Political Blame and the Consensus Among Small Business Owners
11:26 Proposed Solutions: The Keep Main Street Open Act
14:11 The Future of Government Funding and Its Implications