Government Shutdown Fallout: How Small Businesses and Hotels Are Struggling
Main Street Matters with Elaine Parker and Alfredo Ortiz explores the intersection of small business and government policy. With more than 90 million Americans either owning or depending on small business for their household income, policies like taxes, regulations, and access to credit have a huge effect on the American Dream. Elaine and Alfredo talk with small business owners, government officials and office holders, and experts about everything from education to the labor market on this interesting and entertaining podcast.
Saturday, November 1, 2025
In this episode of Main Street Matters, host Elaine Parker sits down with Rich Gandhi, a New Jersey hotel owner and small business advocate, to discuss how the federal government shutdown is devastating small businesses across the state. Gandhi reveals how his hospitality business has suffered a 30% drop in revenue, forcing difficult decisions like layoffs and cost cuts. The conversation explores the real economic toll of the shutdown, the New Jersey governor’s race, and the urgent need for small business reforms—from lowering taxes to tackling frivolous lawsuits and skyrocketing insurance costs. Tune in to hear how entrepreneurs like Rich Gandhi are fighting to keep Main Street businesses alive amid government inaction.
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