Small business owners concerned about upcoming election

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - With the election swiftly approaching, small-business owners are holding their breath to see what happens.

Ryan Cummins owns The Apple House in Terre Haute, and he's no exception. He's curious to see the outcome.

But right now, he's more concerned about the unknown after the election.

"The folks who are trying to make it, whether it’s an individual supporting their family or a business that employs people, the unknowns are almost overwhelming,” said Cummins.    

A combination of local, state and federal government determines the rules, taxes and regulations for small businesses.

Nationally, small business owners are reporting the political climate is a reason not to expand, according to the National Federation of Independent business.

So owners are spending only where necessary and not hiring or expanding until the future is more certain.

Cummins said he can't really grow because he doesn't know what's coming and he won't downsize because of the unknown.

So Cummins is more concerned about keeping up a profit right now.

"And then when you have lots of unknown costs being loaded onto you by all levels of government, it makes for a very difficult scenario to turn a profit,” said Cummins.    

Cummins thinks once customers are more confident in their finances, and start buying more product, things will start looking up for his business and other small business owners.

But Cummins will wait a little longer before making any significant changes to his business.