Business Leaders Support Congressional Action to Ensure Safe and Fair Elections with Reform of Electoral Count Act

December 23, 2022

Research From The Business & Democracy Initiative And Morning Consult Shows 96% Of Business Leaders Overwhelmingly Agree That A “Well-Functioning Democracy Is Important To A Strong Economy”

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Today, the U.S. Congress passed bipartisan legislation to reform the Electoral Count Act (ECA) of 1887 in an effort to protect democracy by ensuring safe and fair elections. Previously, business leaders and organizations have supported reforming the Electoral Count Act.

Research this year from the Business & Democracy Initiative and Morning Consult shows executives, directors, and small business owners overwhelmingly agree that a “well-functioning democracy is important to a strong economy” and 81% believe that “businesses should act to ensure safe and fair elections.”

In response to today’s vote, Business & Democracy Initiative co-founders, Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO of the Leadership Now Project, and Rhett Buttle, Principal of Public Private Strategies, released the following statement:

“Business leaders across America are grateful that Congress has taken a major step toward ensuring the stability of our democracy and our economic prosperity. The current law, the Electoral Count Act of 1887, allows a single congressman or senator to contest the results of a presidential election without any evidence. This is an unnecessary threat to both our democracy and our economy. Today’s reform will reduce that risk to upcoming presidential elections, while improving the business climate for all Americans.

“The need for this reform — and the risk to business from threats to democracy — is substantial: political instability can raise the cost of doing business, suppress entrepreneurship, and erode the democratic systems that allow business to prosper. At a time when confidence in America’s democracy is at an all-time low, we need action from Washington to protect our democracy and our economy.

“While important, reforming the Electoral Count Act is only a step as we work to strengthen our democracy. The decades-long restriction of voting rights, partisan gerrymandering, and influence of money in our politics have disenfranchised too many Americans and weakened the principle of one person and one vote. In the new year, Congress must continue to secure our economic prosperity by reducing these risks to our democracy.”

Over the course of the past year, business leaders have expressed support for efforts to reform the Electoral Count Act. Some highlights of business leader support for reform of the Electoral Count Act are below:

Small Business for America’s Future:

“Small Business for America’s Future welcomes the newly proposed, bipartisan Senate legislation to modernize the Electoral Count Act … This legislation would support Main Street entrepreneurs by protecting our elections and bolstering trust in democratic institutions, as a strong democracy is the cornerstone of a dynamic and inclusive American economy.”

Business for America:

“The future of our republic relies upon effective election administration, public trust in the results, and the peaceful transfer of power — and so do our markets and businesses. Our country cannot afford a constitutional crisis,” said Sarah Bonk, the founder and CEO of Business for America. “That’s why we’re mobilizing the business community to support passage of the bipartisan Electoral Count Reform Act.”

Partnership for New York City:

“The business community understands that a strong economy is reliant on a stable democracy,” said Kathryn Wylde, President and CEO of the Partnership for New York City. “We support the bipartisan leaders in Congress working to ensure we uphold and protect our democratic process. Reforming the ambiguous Electoral Count Act is a critical step to secure a peaceful transition of power and ensure that we have free and fair elections – the bedrock of our democracy.”

Bipartisan Policy Center:

“We cannot risk another presidential election without fixing the Electoral Count Act,” said Matthew Weil of the Bipartisan Policy Center. “The aftermath of the 2020 election revealed significant ambiguities in our system for choosing the president that were too easily exploited to foment distrust and spur attempts to disrupt the lawful transition of power. This bipartisan Senate framework is a critical step for shoring up vulnerabilities, protecting election workers, and improving the voting experience.”

Business Roundtable:

“Business Roundtable applauds the bipartisan group of Senators who have worked together to craft legislation to reform the Electoral Count Act of 1887,” said Business Roundtable CEO Joshua Bolten. “The Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act makes important updates to the law to eliminate any ambiguities around Congress’s role or procedures. This legislation demonstrates the potential for bipartisan efforts to preserve trust and confidence in our nation’s democratic system”

Leadership Now Project:

“The business community understands that a strong economy is reliant on a strong democracy. We support the bipartisan leaders in Congress working to ensure we uphold and protect our democratic process. The ECA is a critical step in restoring trust in our electoral systems and ensuring that we have free and fair elections - the bedrock of our democracy.”

Green America’s Green Business Network:

“As evidenced by the attempt to overthrow the 2020 presidential election results, the Electoral Count Reform Act is urgently needed to safeguard the U.S. election process and protect our democracy, the basis of our society. It would be unconscionable in the wake of recent efforts to overturn presidential election results for Congress to fail to pass the strongest possible law to ensure the integrity of these elections.”

Business for Democracy:

“Protecting our democracy is a top priority of small business owners. They know that there can be no vibrant entrepreneurial economy without a strong democracy. One only needs to look at the weak economies of autocratic nations for proof. Modernizing the Electoral Count Act to address the 1887 Act’s ambiguities regarding the federal role in selecting the President and Vice President is clearly necessary. The now widely recognized undemocratic efforts to deny the American voters’ Constitutional right to choose their leaders must never be allowed to happen again.”

Public Private Strategies:

“Modernizing the Electoral Count Act is a commonsense step to secure the peaceful transition of power and strengthen our democratic institutions,” said Rhett Buttle, Founder and Principal at Public Private Strategies. “The way the Electoral Count Act was weaponized by anti-democratic actors during the 2020 elections was a direct threat both to our democracy and our prosperity. Business leaders and organizations across the country support this bipartisan effort because they know that strong democratic institutions are essential to a fair and prosperous economy.”

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ICYMI: Business and Democracy Initiative Hosts Briefings Highlighting Election Risks Reaching Over 1000 Business Leaders in Pennsylvania and Across the Nation

November 2, 2024

WASHINGTON – This week, the Business and Democracy Initiative (BDI) hosted two briefings featuring former Treasury Secretary Robert E. Rubin and former American Express CEO and General Catalyst Chairman Ken Chenault discussing the critical role of businesses in protecting American democracy and implications for business owners - one event was national with over 700 registrants and the other was focused on Pennsylvania with over 300 registrants. These briefings build on BDI’s ongoing work that underscores how business leaders can lead by example and support a thriving democracy and economy. “As business leaders, we understand the value of stability and trust—and this election is fundamentally a choice between chaos and stability for our country,” said Ken Chenault, Chairman of General Catalyst and former CEO of American Express. “The business community must continue to take a stand, recognizing that without a strong democracy, American business cannot thrive. This is not a political or partisan issue; it’s about upholding democratic principles that transcend party lines and sustain our economy and society. I am proud of the business leaders stepping forward to ensure a secure, fair election process for all Americans.” “Business leaders have experienced firsthand the impacts of democracy becoming increasingly politicized. Rather than viewing democracy through a partisan lens, we should treat it as a shared value that both Democrats and Republicans can coalesce around –– that’s been the foundation of our nation for over 250 years,” said Robert E. Rubin, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury. “We must recognize and combat the damage that politicizing democracy does, much like what we’ve seen with the idea of patriotism. Beyond this election, it’s crucial for business leaders to step up, engage with government and reinforce the democratic principles that support our society and economy.” “The business community stands united in its commitment to protect democracy as a cornerstone of economic stability,” said Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO of Leadership Now Project. “We’ve already seen strong, proactive leadership from business leaders, especially in closely contested states like Wisconsin and Arizona, who are reinforcing respect for the election process and support for election officials. This election season, hundreds of business leaders have taken public stands, signed calls for safe and secure elections, and engaged their networks to uphold the rule of law. Together, we’re demonstrating that respecting the democratic process is the most important economic policy we can promote.” “Economic opportunity is closely tied to the strength of our democracy. When democratic rights are at risk, it’s often the most vulnerable communities who bear the burden. We must ensure elections remain accessible and fair so that Black communities –– and all communities –– can shape a more equitable economic future,” said Samantha Tweedy, CEO of the Black Economic Alliance. “Despite a polarized climate, CEOs and business leaders are stepping up as trusted voices, ready to make a meaningful impact on the stability of our democracy and economy. The hundreds of business leaders who joined us demonstrated the strong commitment of the business community to act decisively in support of our democratic principles this November.” “As we approach one of the most important elections of our lifetime, leaders like Robert Rubin and Ken Chenault are underscoring the vital role of the private sector in safeguarding democracy,” said Rhett Buttle, Founder and CEO of Public Private Strategies. “Business leaders are trusted voices in their communities, and we know they care deeply about both the economy and democracy. Together with the Black Economic Alliance and Leadership Now Project, we’re building a coalition of business leaders dedicated to protecting democratic institutions and ensuring safe, secure elections. In this pivotal election season, we’re committed to ensuring that business voices remain central in defending democracy and economic resilience.” The briefings come as the business community — including 500 small business owners, over 150 business leaders, and more than 20 leading business associations led by BDI and its founding partners — has pledged to speak out against political violence to protect our democracy and economy. The pledges urge fellow business leaders to protect our elections this November by promoting civic engagement, supporting voter education, and publicly condemning political violence. ### About the Business & Democracy Initiative The Business & Democracy Initiative is a partnership of business leaders dedicated to protecting our elections and rebuilding trust in democratic institutions, because we know that a strong democracy is the cornerstone of a dynamic and inclusive American economy. The Business & Democracy Initiative's founding partners are top business leaders and advocates: the Black Economic Alliance, the Leadership Now Project, and Public Private Strategies. We engage stakeholders across all levels of business to advocate for reforms that strengthen our democracy. As the health and stability of American democracy continue to be under serious threat, the business community is a critical voice in the fight to preserve our free, open, and democratic system.

How Business Can Respond to Political Violence

October 24, 2024

*This webinar is hosted by Business for America. Political violence is on the rise in the United States, affecting people at every level of the political process, from the president to Congress to poll workers to voters — but there are proven strategies to counter it. As the election draws near, how can the business sector help prevent and respond to political violence? Join us on October 29th from 3–4pm ET for an important conversation to discuss the causes of political violence both here and abroad, understand the the risks relating to the 2024 election, explore strategies to prevent violence from becoming an accepted social norm, and get messaging and resources to help you take action in response to threats or breakouts of election violence. You’ll learn how to: • Support your employees by communicating with them about the risk of election violence • Set clear guidelines within your company around political speech and threatening language • Speak out publicly against violent rhetoric to the media in the communities where you operate • Build a custom strategy that fits the culture of your company or organization • Contact public officials, candidates, election officials, and local law enforcement to express support for actions to address violence • Join efforts to ensure that political violence backfires on malign actors Speakers: • David Becker, president of the The Center for Election Innovation & Research • Hardy Merriman, president of the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict • Chad Sweet, co-founder of The Chertoff Group and Co-chair of YPO Democracy Group’s Coalition of Business Organizations Committee Combating political violence requires strong leadership from all sectors of our society. The business community must do its part. Register here.

Business Organizations and Associations Support Safe and Secure Elections

October 18, 2024

Over 20 of the leading business associations and organizations have come together to urge public officials and business leaders to stand up for democracy and support a safe and secure election process this fall. Read the full letter below.

Business for America: Webinar: The Election Roadmap for Your Employee Communications

October 17, 2024

*This webinar is hosted by Business for America. Election Day and the vote counting process are looming, and likely to be at turns unpredictable, confusing, and frustrating. What can your company or organization do to support your employees and members through the coming weeks and months? Join Business for America along with experts from the Brennan Center for Justice who will share insights and recommendations on how to be a trusted source of validated information.We have curated the best resources for this timely, action-oriented session for you to be trusted source of information. We’ll give you the tools you need to support employee voting, plan for Election Day through the inauguration, and prevent confusion from misinformation and legal challenges during the counting and certification steps. You will learn: The Roadmap to the Count: We’ll have a step-by-step review of the process and rules that states are obligated to follow when managing, counting, and certifying votes The Risks & Threats Ahead: Learn about election milestones where businesses can help employees to distinguish fact from fiction, spot deepfakes, and respond to threats of violence and other disruptions How to Be a Trusted Info Source: We’ll provide templates and nonpartisan messaging that your company can employ to encourage voter turnout, address incorrect information, and build confidence in the election process Don’t miss this opportunity to get the tools you need to navigate the road ahead. Leaders in public affairs, legal, communications, employee engagement, corporate impact, and similar roles will benefit the most from this urgent conversation and resources. Register here.

Business Forward: Briefing: The most consequential economic risk of our lifetime

October 16, 2024

*This podcast is part of Business Forward. EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this episode, Business Forward welcomed former U.S. Secretary of Treasury Robert Rubin and Ken Chenault, Chairman and Managing Director of General Catalyst and former Chairman and CEO of American Express, for a briefing on the damage the outcome of this election could do to America’s economy and our global competitiveness. Listen here.

Leadership Now Project: Business Action for Voting and Poll Working

October 14, 2024

*This event is sponsored by Leadership Now Project. Join us for a virtual briefing where we’ll discuss a range of innovative strategies to boost civic engagement ahead of the election. These include the NFL’s efforts to get out the vote, the U.S. Postal Service using their 32,000 retail locations to register voters, and Day for Democracy encouraging CEOs to give employees time off to vote. Leadership Now business leaders are at the forefront of these initiatives, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn more and discover how you can get involved. Register here.

Business Forward: Briefing: Cost of Political Chaos

October 10, 2024

*This podcast is part of Business Forward. EPISODE DESCRIPTION In this episode, Business Forward welcomed former U.S. Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker and Dr. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Senior Associate Dean for Leadership Studies & Lester Crown Professor in the Practice of Management at the Yale School of Management, for a briefing on our economy and the rule of law, our safe harbor advantage, and the cost of losing it due to political chaos and a reckless presidency. Listen here.

Civic Alliance: You’re Invited: Election Scenario Planning for Business Leaders

October 7, 2024

*This event is sponsored by Civic Alliance. From mail voting to Inauguration Day, learn about what to expect during each phase of the 2024–25 U.S. general election season. In this educational briefing, the National Task Force on Election Crises will cover how elections are run and offer key messages that business leaders can use in communicating with their audiences. The virtual roundtable will also include a Q&A portion. Register here.

The NewDEAL: Safeguarding the 2024 Election: Six Key Takeaways from Democracy Working Group

October 4, 2024

*This article was written by The NewDEAL. Last month, the NewDEAL Forum’s Democracy Working Group met with election officials and democracy experts to discuss strategies for safeguarding the election process, including the need for long-term election security planning, coordinated response to misinformation, transparency, voter education, addressing ongoing voter suppression and eligibility threats, and managing post-election challenges. In our recent blog post on Medium, we detail the conversation with NewDEALers Michigan Secretary of State Joceyln Benson, New Mexico Secretary of State Maggie Toulouse Oliver, and Oregon Treasurer and candidate for Secretary of State Tobias Read; along with DNC Director of Voter Protection Jake Kenswil and Executive Director of All Voting is Local Hannah Fried. Read the entire piece on Medium.

Horizons Project: Business for Democracy: A Call for Courage and Action

October 1, 2024

*This article was written by Chief Network Weaver Julia Roig . There is ample evidence that democracies around the world are being threatened by authoritarian populist forces, and that the best antidote to stemming this tide is broad-based, “big tent” organizing to stand up for democratic norms and freedoms. This multi-sectoral, cross-ideological approach is the basis for the Horizons Project Pillars of Support initiative ; a framework to analyze and engage key institutions that uphold democracy, including businesses, faith organizations, professional associations, unions, and veterans’ groups. Read the entire piece on Horizons Project.