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Congressman Paul Tonko, representing New York's 20th District, is visiting Rensselaer County today (Tuesday, November 25) to discuss the impact of President Trump's tariffs on local businesses. He will be at DeFazio's Pizzeria on Fourth Street in Troy, a longstanding establishment in the community since 1951. The visit is part of Tonko's efforts to highlight the importance of Small Business Saturday and the challenges small businesses face due to rising operating costs.
According to The Saratogian, Tonko emphasized the vital role small businesses play in the economy, noting that they are the "engine of our economy" and contribute significantly to local job growth and creativity. He acknowledged the difficulties these businesses encounter, including the effects of tariffs, which have increased costs for many.
DeFazio's Pizzeria, like many other small businesses, has experienced a sharp rise in operating expenses due to tariffs on imported goods. Tonko's visit aims to bring attention to these issues and encourage local support for small businesses, especially during the holiday shopping season.
In a statement on his official website, Tonko urged the community to support local entrepreneurs, stating that each dollar spent at a locally owned business generates up to three times the local economic impact compared to spending at national chains. He has been working in Congress to support small businesses through initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to reduce costs for entrepreneurs.
Tonko's visit to DeFazio's is part of a broader effort to recognize and support small businesses in the Capital Region, highlighting their contributions and the unique challenges they face in the current economic climate.