CEOs discuss effect of Trump, if president, on South Florida business
This week’s question: Do you think a President Donald Trump would be good for business in the U.S. and South Florida?
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While I am not prepared to endorse any particular presidential candidate as I feel that is a personal matter, I think we can agree that Mr. Trump, the entrepreneur and magnate, has had a powerful track record in business globally as well as in the South Florida area. Like any good businessman, he has had his ups and downs. He’s learned from his missteps and has continued to climb. And, although he is very controversial in nature, Mr. Trump presents some interesting pro-business thinking and case studies that can be evaluated and possibly leveraged if appropriate.
Alejandro Badia, orthopedic surgeon and founder, OrthoNOW
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No. I do not think he would be good for business. Miami is an international destination and financial hub. In his campaign, he has expressed support for policies that will alienate us with foreign travelers and international business, which I think would hurt business in the U.S. and South Florida.
Peggy Benua, general manager, Dream South Beach
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Our work with The Underline has immersed me in the public sector at every level. I used to believe that if someone was a good business person that those skills easily transferred to the public sector. I have changed my mind. I now believe that we need honest, fair and visionary leaders who have deep knowledge of how the public sector works.
Meg Daly, president and CEO, Friends of The Underline
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Yes, as president, some of his positions may appear not to make sense, but most of them will make cents.
T. Willard Fair, president and CEO, Urban League of Greater Miami
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President Donald Trump? I shudder at the thought.
Mitch Kaplan, founder, Books & Books
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Donald Trump was not my choice in the primary, and I believe other candidates in the initial field would have been better for businesses. Because Mr. Trump does business in South Florida and has a home here, it could be beneficial for our area if he becomes president; but nothing he has proposed makes me believe a Trump presidency would be a huge boon for our area.
Mario Murgado, president and CEO, Brickell Motors
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While this is certainly a contentious time in national politics and the presidential race, both sides of the political spectrum are presenting what they feel to be revolutionary changes to the national and local economy, and the way business is done. When the people decide who will ultimately be our leader, my hope is that they will continue to support the local economies, and small businesses found across the United States. These local “shops” are the backbone of our country and economy, providing jobs, fostering investment, and preserving culture across our great nation.
Steve Perricone, president and owner, Perricone’s Restaurant
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Donald Trump is a disaster for our country and our city. I do not dislike him personally, but find his behavior deplorable. As a good friend said, “Pointing the finger of hate is very dangerous. Ultimately, it can be pointed anywhere.” If the next president is a Republican, we would have been much better off with Rubio or Bush.
Craig Robins, president and CEO, Dacra
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What’s good for business in the U.S. and South Florida is the continued support of small business. Miami’s economy is largely dependent on the airport and PortMiami, and their success fuels small business, and therefore, our local economy. If President Trump focuses on that fact, it will be good for the U.S. and South Florida.
David Samson, president, Miami Marlins
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What is good for business in the U.S. and South Florida is leadership that provides predictability, stability and a long-term vision. Strong and positive leadership — whether in Washington or at the local level — is critical for any nation or area to be successful. With Florida ranked as the 18th-largest economy in the world, we need thoughtful, constructive approaches for Florida to continue to be successful. It’s important that we have a leader who values an inclusive workforce, one who can attract and retain people and businesses from around the world. We need to continue to be a nation, state and city that are welcoming to those who want to work hard and make a better life for their families. That’s what made America great, and that’s what leadership should provide.
Eric Silagy, president and CEO, Florida Power & Light
This story was originally published April 24, 2016 at 3:00 PM with the headline "CEOs discuss effect of Trump, if president, on South Florida business."