Zogby Analytics recently conducted a national survey targeting 302 business owners and C-suite executives to better understand their perspectives on the U.S. economy, political leadership, and the overall business climate. The results reveal a snapshot of a politically engaged and economically aware group, largely made up of leaders from small to mid-sized enterprises across a variety of industries.
The majority of respondents (65.9%) identified as business owners, while 34.1% were CXO-level executives. The industries most prominently represented include construction, finance, manufacturing, retail, and IT services/technology. Over half (52.6%) of those surveyed reported annual revenues below $10 million, and nearly 87% said they employed between 25 and 249 people.
Political engagement among respondents was notably high, with 93% stating they are either definitely or very likely to vote in upcoming national elections. When asked about political affiliation, 44% identified as Republican, 32.8% as Democrat, and 22.2% as Independent or unaffiliated.
Opinions on political leadership were slightly mixed. A combined 58% of respondents said they approved of former President Donald Trump’s job performance, with 32.8% strongly approving. In contrast, 41% disapproved. Approval of Congress was more tepid, with just 17.5% strongly approving and a total of 51.3% expressing some level of approval. Over 44% disapproved of Congress.
Despite national political divides, a slight majority of business leaders feel the country is headed in the right direction. Just over 50% believe the U.S. is on the right path overall, with 50% expressing optimism about the economy and 49% saying the same about foreign policy. In each case, over 40% of respondents expressed concern that the nation is on the wrong track, reflecting continued political and economic uncertainty.
Overall, the findings suggest that business leaders are somewhat optimistic about economic conditions and the administration, but they still maintain a cautious stance when it comes to national leadership and the economy.
The responses also show a slight lean toward support for President Donald Trump and, by extension, his "America First" agenda.
In sum, the data suggest that CXOs and business owners are receptive to the core tenets of the “America First,” agenda, particularly in economic and domestic policy. While foreign policy views are slightly more mixed, the overall sentiment reflects alignment with Trump's nationalist-populist framework and a desire for policies that prioritize domestic economic strength, deregulation, tax cuts, and protectionist trade policies.
The results are particularly relevant for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to support entrepreneurship and business growth. As the 2026 midterm election approaches, the perspectives of small and mid-sized business leaders will be crucial in shaping public policy and national discourse, and may ultimately decide the balance of power in Congress.
