Trucker Weighing Impact of Elections on Business Costs
With elections imminent, truckers are considering how Washington's decisions might affect their business expenses. Fuel, tariffs, and repair costs are significant concerns for small businesses like Rowe Trucking in Michigan.
Rhonda Rowe, who took over the family trucking business from her father and now employs her children, feels the weight of these rising costs. "Just to know that you have a company that carries your name, and it is taking care of other families, it just makes you feel really good," she said.
Her monthly expenses include $5,600 in insurance, $30,000 in payroll, $6,000-$8,000 on fuel, and unpredictable maintenance costs. Her son Laron, a 12-year veteran of the road, explains that even minor repairs can be costly, and political decisions in Washington add to these expenses.
"I didn't realize how much politics can affect this industry," Laron said. "The price of fuel, the price of groceries, everything."
They face delays in receiving materials from overseas due to geopolitical tensions, further impacting their business. Despite the challenges, Rhonda is committed to her employees and refuses to pass on the financial burden by cutting their pay. She attributes her resilience to prayer and faith.