Big news for the backbone of the American economy! The bipartisan Congressional Family Business Caucus is set to kick off 2026 under new, dynamic leadership. We’re thrilled to announce that Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY) have been named the new Co-Chairs, bringing their experience and dedication to advocating for family-owned businesses across the nation.
Their first meeting, scheduled for March 17th on Capitol Hill, promises to be a crucial gathering, focusing on “Pricing and Profits: Affordability Strategies for Family-Owned Businesses.”
The Heart of the American Economy: Why Family Businesses Matter
Formed in 2023, the Congressional Family Business Caucus plays a vital role in educating legislators about the immense contributions of family enterprises. Did you know that America’s family-owned businesses fuel our economy with an astounding $7.7 trillion annually? They also create 83.3 million jobs, accounting for nearly 60% of the country’s private workforce! This caucus, supported by organizations like Family Enterprise USA (FEUSA) and its Women’s Business Owners Group, ensures these critical businesses have a strong voice in Congress.
Meet Your New Co-Chairs: Advocates for Main Street
Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA): A Champion for Opportunity
Returning to the Caucus, Rep. Lou Correa has represented California’s 46th congressional district (Orange County) since 2017. With a background as an investment banker, real estate broker, and college instructor, Rep. Correa understands the journey of building a future. He currently serves on the Committee on Homeland Security and the Committee on the Judiciary.
“Our economy is driven by family businesses whose owners and employees are usually our neighbors,” Rep. Correa stated. “My parents worked hard to give me the opportunity to reach the middle class and starting a family business provides the same possibility to millions of Americans. We need to make sure that family businesses continue to flourish across different industries, and the Family Business Caucus will work to help Main Street entrepreneurs achieve their American Dream.”
Rep. Claudia Tenney (R-NY): From Family Business to Capitol Hill
Rep. Claudia Tenney, a former co-chair, brings a unique perspective, having helped run her family’s commercial printing and manufacturing firm, Mid-York Press, Inc., started by her grandfather. An attorney by trade, she also established Tenney Media Group. Rep. Tenney has represented upstate New York districts since 2016 and currently serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.
“Family-owned businesses are the backbone of communities across the country, creating jobs, supporting local economies, and carrying on traditions that span generations,” said Congresswoman Tenney. “As someone who helped run my family’s business, I understand the unique challenges these businesses face, from rising costs and workforce pressures to complex regulations and tax policy. I look forward to working with Congressman Correa and our colleagues in the Caucus to ensure family businesses have a strong voice in Congress and the policies they need to grow, compete, and continue supporting millions of American workers.”
Upcoming Meeting: “Pricing and Profits: Affordability Strategies”
The first of three meetings this year, organized by Family Enterprise USA and Family Enterprise USA Action, will delve into the critical topic of affordability. Held at the Capitol Building’s Visitor Center, the event will feature:
- Presentations from Family Enterprise USA.
- Insights from family business leaders.
- Expert analysis from legislative and tax specialists.
- Discussions led by Pat Soldano (President, FEUSA) and John Gugliada (Director of Engagement, FEUSA).
- Highlights from the annual survey and legislative/political updates from Brownstein.
- A “What Now” presentation by renowned communications expert and political analyst Dr. Frank Luntz.
Attendees will also have the invaluable opportunity to meet with their House Members and staff in the afternoon.
A Unified Voice for Family Enterprises
Pat Soldano, President of Family Enterprise USA, expressed gratitude for the new leadership:
“We’re grateful to see Representatives Tenney and Correa co-chair the Congressional Family Business Caucus for the 119th Congress. We’re also excited to kick-off this year’s meetings with the theme of affordability strategies for family businesses. Our two co-chairs are intimately familiar with the struggles and unique challenges family-owned businesses face versus traditional corporations. We look forward to their leadership in helping family-owned businesses get their voices heard in Congress.”
With Reps. Correa and Tenney at the helm, the Congressional Family Business Caucus is poised to make significant strides in advocating for policies that support the growth and sustainability of America’s vital family-owned businesses. Their leadership will undoubtedly help ensure that the dreams of Main Street entrepreneurs continue to flourish.
Source: Original Article
