Leadership Now Condemns Politicization of Criminal Law in Powell Probe

 Leadership Now Condemns Politicization of Criminal Law in Powell Probe

Organization urges Congress to defend Fed independence amid investigation of central bank chair.

Leadership Now stands firmly behind Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and the principle of an independent central bank.

The launch of a criminal probe focused on Chairman Powell amid disagreement over interest-rate policy risks the vital independence of the Federal Reserve. In a powerful statement, Powell has said the scrutiny stems from the Federal Reserve setting interest rates based on its best assessment of what serves the public interest, rather than following the preferences of the President. 

Congress created the Federal Reserve as an independent entity to insulate monetary policy from political pressure. This enables its decisions to be guided by data, expertise, and considerations of long-term economic stability rather than short-term politics. The use of a pretext to initiate legal action to pressure economic stewards poses a serious threat to governance and the rule of law.  

Public officials are not above scrutiny. But the application of criminal law to achieve political ends threatens to politicize both the administration of justice and the setting of monetary policy in the national interest. It sends a chilling message to current and future government officials that their role is not to serve the American people but rather to further specific political ends.   Protecting the Fed’s independence is essential to preserving the stability of the U.S. economy and the credibility of the United States’ global financial leadership. We urge Members of Congress to use their full authority to uphold the independence of the Fed.

See Chair Powell’s Jan. 11 statement on the Fed’s independence and decision-making process: https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/speech/powell20260111a.htm 

Survey Finds 84% of Business Leaders Worry About Political and Legal Climate’s Impact on Business

Leadership Now Project’s Survey Finds 84% of Business Leaders Worry About Political and Legal Climate’s Impact on Business

Elevated Levels of Concern Unchanged from April Survey

More Than A Third of Business Leaders Worry About Expressing Their Views On Government Policy

New York – In the week before elections, a new poll from Leadership Now Project conducted by The Harris Poll reveals that 84% of senior business leaders remain very or somewhat concerned about the current political and legal climate’s impact on their companies–holding steady from April. 

Even more striking, this alarm cuts across political party affiliation (91% Democrat, 83% Republican, 81% Independent) and company size (82% small/mid-size (1-499 employees), 86% large (500+ employees)).

The sentiments expressed in the survey underscore concern about the impact on businesses of today’s volatile policy environment, including recent executive orders, policy shifts on tariffs, regulatory changes, and potential personnel changes. These drivers of uncertainty have complicated long-term planning, capital investment, hiring, and supply-chain decisions.

Conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of Leadership Now Project from October 14–22, 2025, the online poll surveyed 353 senior business leaders (director level and above) across a range of company sizes. The previous poll was conducted April 21-24.

Other key findings from the polling include:

Citing fears of political retribution, reputational risk for themselves or their companies, and potential harassment of employees, 36% of business leaders feel very uncomfortable or somewhat uncomfortable publicly expressing their views on government policy, up from 25% in the previous April poll.

Despite that rising discomfort, there is near-unanimity on how to respond: irrespective of company size or party, 93% say businesses should appropriately push back against government policies they view as harmful. The most common actions cited were adjusting investments or operations in response to policy (50%), and issuing public statements or advocacy campaigns (47%), followed by withholding political contributions (46%), filing legal challenges in court (45%), building coalitions across industries (43%), and direct lobbying in Washington, D.C. (40%).

"Business leaders are still very worried that Washington policymaking will potentially harm their businesses,” said Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO of the Leadership Now Project. “Erratic government actions and unpredictable intervention in the economy prevent leaders from planning for the long-term and undermine our country’s economic competitiveness and the overall health of the economy. Today's uncertainty requires business leaders to be dynamic, and Leadership Now members urge colleagues to engage in supporting business stability and keeping the economy strong.”

These findings reinforce a core principle that guides Leadership Now Project’s work.

Protecting the rule of law is essential to safeguarding American competitiveness.

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About Leadership Now Project 

Leadership Now Project is a membership organization of business leaders committed to protecting democracy as a foundation for a thriving economy and political stability. We take action—investing in leaders, influencing policy, responding to risks, and partnering to drive solutions.

Founded in 2017, today Leadership Now has members in 25+ states and chapters in 8, and collaborates with faculty at more than a dozen colleges and universities. Learn more at www.leadershipnowproject.org.

About the Survey 

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Leadership Now Project from October 14 – 22, 2025, among 353 U.S. adults aged 21+ who are employed (full-time, part-time, or self-employed), as a director or higher (including VP and C-suite), across a range of company sizes (referred to as “senior business leaders”). The sampling precision of online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval.  For this study, the full sample data is accurate to within +/- 5.8 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact Kathy Steinberg, kathy.steinberg@harrispoll.com.

Media Contacts:
For Leadership Now Project: Patrick Lenihan, patrick@gravitystrat.com 

For The Harris Poll: Kathy Steinberg, kathy.steinberg@harrispoll.com

Statement on President Trump’s Firing of the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics

NEW YORK, NY—Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO of the Leadership Now Project, issued the following statement in response to President Trump’s firing of Dr. Erika McEntarfer, Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and his efforts to discredit the bureau’s recent jobs report:

“President Trump’s firing of the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Dr. Erika McEntarfer, and his comments undermining the bureau’s recent jobs report threaten the integrity of an essential economic institution.”

“The credibility of the Bureau of Labor Statistics depends on its independence and analytical rigor. Business leaders rely on the bureau to make sound economic decisions. Politicizing it damages market confidence, investor trust, and ultimately, American competitiveness.”

“As Michael Strain of the American Enterprise Institute rightly stated, ‘It is imperative that businesses, households and investors believe that official government data are accurate and do not reflect any political bias. Fortunately, that is true of the data, but by sowing doubt, President Trump is undermining the integrity of the information that businesses, investors and households rely on.’”

“Leadership Now calls upon Congress to ensure this Administration upholds the independence and integrity of our democratic and economic institutions. We urge fellow business associations and leaders to join us.”

Remembering David Gergen

Advisor. Inspirational Thought Partner. Champion of the Next Generation.

Leadership Now Project mourns the passing of David Gergen, an advisor to Leadership Now since 2019 and an inspirational thought partner whose belief in principled leadership helped shape our work. Over the years, David was an extraordinary source of wisdom and support as we worked to identify, cultivate, and mobilize the kind of leaders this moment demands—leaders who can rise to meet a time of deep uncertainty and help steer the nation forward with integrity and purpose.

David believed leadership is not born—it’s built. That belief defined his life’s work across four presidential administrations—both Republican and Democrat—as well as his commentary on CNN, decades of teaching at Harvard’s Kennedy School, and co-founding its Center for Public Leadership. In recent years, he turned his full attention to the future—calling on his peers to step aside and urging rising leaders to step up.

His 2022 book, Hearts Touched with Fire, was both a call to action and a roadmap: leadership begins with service, grows through adversity, and is guided by purpose. In it, he made a powerful case that we are living through a leadership moment—and the country’s future depends on a new generation answering the call.

We were honored to have David speak at our Annual Meetings in both 2019 and 2022. At the 2022 gathering in New York, he spoke with clarity and conviction about the leadership our country needs now. When we challenged him not to focus solely on millennials as the face of emerging leadership, he took the point with his signature wit and grace—conceding that Gen X, too, had a vital role to play in the renewal he championed. He pushed us to think big and act boldly, always encouraging rising leaders while modeling the humility it takes to make space for them.

David Gergen speaking at the 2022 Leadership Now Annual Meeting in New York City.

We found resonance in his perspective on centrism. He told The Boston Globe in 2020, “Centrism doesn’t mean splitting the difference. It’s about seeking solutions, and you bring people along.” David gave generously of his time—sharing insights, always asking hard questions, and helping shape our vision of what it means to lead with integrity, courage, and impact.

David’s influence extended across our national network. Building on years of working relationships with business and thought leaders, he helped launch our Ohio chapter.

We are deeply saddened by David’s passing. But we take his message forward: leadership is a choice, and now is the time to lead. May his memory inspire us to act with the clarity, generosity, and fire he embodied.

From left to right: Leadership Now CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares, David Gergen, Austin Hearst, and 2022 Leadership Now Award Winner and Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Al Schmidt.

Statement on Passage of the Budget Reconciliation Bill

Thursday, July 3, 2025 — Leadership Now Project released the following statement after Congress advanced the budget reconciliation bill, securing only the support of Republican lawmakers.

“While framed as pro-growth, the budget reconciliation bill passed on partisan lines undermines U.S. competitiveness. It weakens fiscal discipline, destabilizes critical investment, and imposes short-sighted policies that threaten the long-term foundations of American economic leadership. The Penn Wharton Budget model projects that the bill would reduce GDP and wages by 0.3% and increase the federal debt by 7.6% over ten years—highlighting its failure to promote growth while significantly expanding deficits.

“The bill weakens America’s investment climate and innovation edge. Provisions rolling back clean energy incentives impose cumbersome new rules, needlessly undermining the investments needed to power American homes and fuel AI innovation. They also undermine the credibility of government investment incentives.

“In healthcare, the bill burdens states with costly new regulation, under the guise of entitlement reform. Experience shows that the proposed work requirement regimes are ineffective, burdensome, and needlessly harm Americans with little budgetary impact. Estimates from the Congressional Budget Office suggest they will lead to nearly 12 million people losing their health insurance.

“As business leaders, we seek sound, stable policy—on taxes, energy, healthcare, and innovation—that strengthens America’s long-term competitiveness. This is a difficult task that requires serious trade-offs and bipartisan compromise. This bill, unfortunately, fails to deliver.”

Leadership Now Files Amicus Brief Defending Universities as Critical to U.S. Competitiveness

June 9, 2025 — Leadership Now Project has filed an amicus brief in President and Fellows of Harvard College v. United States Department of Health & Human Services, et al. before the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts. The brief urges the court to block the federal government’s freeze on Harvard’s research funding and to reject actions that infringe on the university’s First Amendment rights.

The brief argues that the administration’s actions are both unconstitutional and economically harmful, undermining the institutional independence that has made American universities global leaders in innovation and talent development.

Key Argument:

1. Arbitrary Contract Cancellations Undermine U.S. Competitiveness

The administration’s decision to cancel federal research contracts with Harvard threatens to weaken the next generation of scientific talent and stifle innovation across sectors. This course of action jeopardizes America’s long-term economic strength and global leadership.

“By cutting federal funding essential to sustaining a robust university research environment at Harvard and elsewhere, the Administration is depleting the next generation of scientific talent, charting a course toward American economic weakness and stagnation, and leaving the American public far worse off.”

2. Attacks on Academic Freedom Violate the First Amendment

The brief asserts that the government’s attempt to impose ideological conditions on federally funded research violates the Constitution and corrupts the integrity of academic institutions.

“Title VI [of the Civil Rights Act of 1964] established in statute a core principle of American governance enshrined in the First Amendment, which prohibits the federal government from conditioning its benefits on content-based requirements that encroach on private universities’ academic freedom of expression.”

“The Administration’s actions, in addition to violating Harvard’s rights, fundamentally threaten the academic freedom that has enabled universities to help make the U.S. a dominant technological and scientific force for decades. The American economy, the businesses that rely upon the system of federally funded research, and the American people as a whole will suffer harm as a result.”

Oral arguments in the case are scheduled for July 21, 2025.

Leadership Now Project Presents Stephen Richer with The 2025 Annual Leadership Award

For Immediate Release: 
Tuesday, June 3, 2025

Media Contact:
Susan McPherson, McPLNP@mcpstrategies.com

Leadership Now Project Presents Stephen Richer with The 2025 Annual Leadership Award

New York, NY –Leadership Now Project, an organization of centrist business leaders, is proud to present Stephen Richer with its 2025 Annual Leadership Award, honoring his principled stand in defense of free and fair elections during his tenure as Maricopa County Recorder. Richer received the award at Leadership Now’s Annual Member Meeting on June 2, 2025, at Hearst Tower in New York City.

As Recorder of Maricopa County—one of the nation’s largest and most politically significant jurisdictions—from 2021 to 2025, Richer oversaw voter registration, early voting, and public recordings. Amid extraordinary political pressure, he stood firm in rejecting false claims of election fraud, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring the legitimacy of Arizona’s elections.

“Stephen exemplifies the courage and leadership that are necessary for upholding our democracy,” shared Leadership Now CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares. “At a time when truth was under siege, he stood firm in defense of facts, transparency, and the rule of law. His commitment to nonpartisan election administration, despite relentless efforts to undermine public trust, embodies the spirit of the Leadership Now Award.” 

“I’m honored to receive the Leadership Now Award,” said Richer. “This recognition isn’t about heroics—it’s about doing the job the way it’s supposed to be done: following the law, telling the truth, and respecting voters. Our elections work because people across the political spectrum stand up for the rules, even when it’s inconvenient or unpopular. I’d like to dedicate this award to the many public servants, some of whom never make the news, who help keep our election system fair and functional.”  

The award was presented by John Fees, a founding member of Leadership Now’s Arizona chapter, who emphasized Richer’s leadership as a model for others. “This is a defining moment. Defending democracy requires all of us—especially those with the resources and networks to make a difference—to take risks, speak up, and lead,” said Fees.

The Annual Leadership Award presentation was part of a day of programming at Leadership Now’s Annual Meeting, which included remarks from North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, Senators John Hickenlooper and Ruben Gallego, Harvard Professor Deepak Malhotra, and former DHS Assistant Secretary Elizabeth Neumann. Sessions explored the risks facing our institutions and the role of leaders across sectors in shaping a resilient future.

About the Leadership Now Award

Since 2018, Leadership Now has honored individuals who demonstrate courageous leadership and a commitment to the rule of law—often at significant personal or professional cost. The Annual Leadership Award recognizes those who put country over party and stand firm in moments that test institutional independence and public trust. Leadership Now is proud to celebrate leaders from across the political spectrum who embody these values and contribute to a more resilient democracy. Previous honorees include former U.S. Representative Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) and Pennsylvania Secretary of the Commonwealth and former Philadelphia City Commissioner Al Schmidt.

About Leadership Now Project

Leadership Now Project is a membership organization of business leaders committed to protecting democracy as a foundation for a thriving economy and political stability. Leadership Now Project takes action—investing in leaders, influencing policy, responding to risks, and partnering to drive solutions. Leadership Now’s membership is national, with members in 25+ states and chapters in 8, drawing on extensive business and alumni networks to drive local and national impact.

New Poll: Business Leaders Express Growing Concern Over U.S. Competitiveness

Leadership Now Project’s Survey Finds 84% of Business Leaders Worried About Political and Legal Climate’s Effect on Their Companies

Washington, D.C., – On the eve of the Trump administration’s 100-day mark, a new poll from Leadership Now Project and The Harris Poll reveals mounting concerns among U.S. business leaders about the country’s global competitiveness. With increasing regulatory uncertainty and disruptive policy shifts, executives are expressing concern about the weakening of the U.S. brand, a decline in economic strength, and a reduction in global standing. Notably, a clear majority, 84% of senior business leaders express concern over the current political and legal environment’s impact on their business. Concern is similarly high among both conservatives and liberals, slightly lower among moderates.

The survey results illustrate how business leaders are navigating today’s political and legal environment, including recent Executive Orders, policy shifts on tariffs, regulatory changes, and potential personnel changes. It also gauges their willingness to publicly address government policies, revealing concerns about political retribution, reputational risks, and even threats to personal safety.

Conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the Leadership Now Project from April 21–24, 2025, the online poll surveyed over 300 senior business leaders (director-level and above) across a range of company sizes. Other key findings from the polling include:

• A majority (84%) of business leaders are very or somewhat concerned about the impact of the current political and legal climate on their business.

• Business leaders across the political spectrum are concerned: Regardless of political party (92% Democrats, 81% Republicans, 82% Independents) or political philosophy (91% Liberal, 79% Conservative, 84% Moderate), majorities of business leaders are very or somewhat concerned about the political and legal climate’s impact on business.

• Nearly half (45%) of business leaders say recent Executive Orders and policies have negatively affected their business’s competitiveness.

"Business leaders across the political spectrum are deeply concerned that the current political climate is putting America’s economic competitiveness and global standing at risk,” said Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO of the Leadership Now Project. “The instability created by disruptive policy shifts, executive actions, and regulatory uncertainty threatens the conditions that have made the United States a global economic leader. Business leaders understand that protecting our economic strength and upholding rule of law are inseparable priorities. We must work together—across industries and political affiliations—to protect the foundations that allow businesses and our country to thrive.”

These findings reinforce a core principle that guides Leadership Now Project’s work: a stable and predictable business environment depends on a strong rule of law. When legal protections are undermined and political structures weaken, the economic risks for companies—and for the country—grow exponentially. Protecting the rule of law is essential to safeguarding American competitiveness.

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About Leadership Now Project 

Leadership Now Project is a membership organization of business leaders committed to protecting democracy as a foundation for a thriving economy and political stability. We take action—investing in leaders, influencing policy, responding to risks, and partnering to drive solutions.

Founded in 2017, today Leadership Now has members in 25+ states and chapters in 8, and collaborates with faculty at more than a dozen colleges and universities. Learn more at www.leadershipnowproject.org.

About the Survey 

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Leadership Now Project from April 21-24, 2025, among 308 U.S. adults aged 21+ who are employed (full-time, part-time, or self-employed), as a director or higher (including VP and C-suite), across a range of company sizes (referred to as “senior business leaders”). The sampling precision of online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval.  For this study, the full sample data is accurate to within +/- 5.8 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact Kathy Steinberg at The Harris Poll or Susan McPherson for Leadership Now Project.

Media Contacts:
For Leadership Now Project: Susan McPherson, McPLNP@mcpstrategies.com
For The Harris Poll: Kathy Steinberg, kathy.steinberg@harrispoll.com

2024 in Review: Milestones & Results

As we reflect on an extraordinarily consequential political year, Leadership Now members played a unique and visible role in shaping key 2024 milestones. Members influenced actions by Congress, the president, their business networks, and broader public audiences, while investing over $40M in candidates and pro-democracy organizations. See below a brief recap of Leadership Now’s 2024 highlights:

Urged Biden to “Pass the Torch”

In July 2024, Leadership Now urged President Biden to “Pass the Torch” through a letter signed by over 450 business and civic leaders. The letter garnered support from 25 Democratic members of Congress and sparked widespread media coverage in outlets like The New York Times, Bloomberg, The Wall Street Journal, and CNN.

Leadership Now’s 2024 Annual Meeting: Extraordinary Leaders & Experts Gathered to Craft an Action Plan

In May 2024, over one hundred and fifty members, partners, world-class experts, and elected officials from across the country came together for Leadership Now’s 6th Annual Meeting at the Hearst Tower in New York City. We heard from extraordinary leaders, including Melinda French Gates, Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, Scranton Mayor Paige Gebhardt Cognetti, Michael Waldman of the Brennan Center, and many more. We look forward to reconvening in June 2025.

(Melinda French Gates, Philanthropist and Businesswoman, joined Global Advocate; Modupe Akinola, Columbia University Professor for a panel discussion on women’s political power.)

(Adam Kinzinger, Founder, Country First; Former Congressman, Illinois 11th Congressional District received the Leadership Now Award, presented by Paul Tagliabue, Former Counsel, Covington & Burling; Former Commissioner of the National Football League)

Backed Highly Qualified, Moderate Candidates for Congress

Since 2018, Leadership Now has helped 32 highly qualified new candidates secure House seats, including several veterans and others coming from underrepresented professional backgrounds like science, engineering, and business. In 2024, 21 out of 25 of our Candidates to Watch won, with 13 emerging victorious in highly competitive races, including five by margins under 2%. Leadership Now members contributed $32M to candidates and PACs, including $759K to our Candidates to Watch.

Expanded Leadership Events Across Key Swing States Ahead of the 2024 Election

In addition to our state chapter efforts, Leadership Now expanded engagement, including in key swing states like Michigan, Georgia, and Pennsylvania. Notable events included:

• Philadelphia: Over 100 business leaders gathered for a lunch and discussion with Rich Lesser, Chairman of Boston Consulting Group, and Shannon Williams, Senior Vice President of Advocacy at the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, discussing Pennsylvania’s election landscape and the challenges election administrators faced. 

• Houston: Former U.S. Congressman Adam Kinzinger joined over 55 business leaders to discuss their role in defending democracy.

• California, Ohio, and Georgia: Leadership Now hosted regional women-focused events on the 2024 election, ways to get involved, and long-term strategies for protecting democracy.

• Virtual briefings with Robert Rubin, former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, and Ken Chenault, Chairman and Managing Director of General Catalyst, focused on economic risks and election impacts.

(In October 2024, Leadership Now CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares moderated a panel with Rich Lesser, Chairman of Boston Consulting Group, and Shannon Williams, Senior Vice President of Advocacy of the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia at a business leaders lunch.)

(Tori Silas, Chair of the Cobb County Board of Elections, discussed the latest legal challenges facing Georgia's elections at a Leadership event in October 2024.)

Protected Elections and Election Officials

In Arizona and Wisconsin, Leadership Now took action to encourage voting while defending election officials facing rising threats. Efforts included open letters, op-eds, salon dinners, corporate voting programs, and filing an amicus brief in the Wisconsin Supreme Court to defend Elections Chief Meagan Wolfe.

Supported Objective Redistricting in Wisconsin

In 2022 and 2023, Leadership Now’s affiliated PAC and members played pivotal roles in supporting Gov. Tony Evers and Justice Janet Protasiewicz, both of whom were instrumental in securing fair maps and ending extreme gerrymandering in Wisconsin. In the 2024 election, 14 legislative seats flipped, ending the Republican supermajority, reducing the Senate majority to 18-15, and shifting the Assembly balance to 54-45, creating a more balanced legislature.

A Leading Voice on Political Risks and Leadership in the Business Press

In 2024, Leadership Now was covered in over 200 stories and podcasts in major media outlets, including The Financial Times, Fortune, Fast Company, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Bloomberg. The organization also grew its academic network to 15+ leading business and policy schools, including Harvard Business School, the University of Michigan, Ohio State University, and Stanford University.

(At the 2024 Milken Global Conference, CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares joined a panel to discuss capitalism's role in safeguarding democracy.)

Issued Executive Analysis on Political Risk for Business Leaders

Leadership Now’s 2024 analysis included resources designed to help business leaders understand and navigate political risks. This included a framework for identifying U.S. political risks and assessing their potential impact on operations, as well as a guide for corporate boards, management teams, and investors to manage political uncertainty.

In preparation for the general election, we also released primers and guidance on the election process and risks ahead. 

Other featured impacts: 

• Hosted 80+ briefings and in-person events with renowned academics, experts and authors; elected officials and candidates; and partners.

• Filed an amicus brief with the New York Supreme Court to uphold the Vote By Mail legislation, arguing that the Early Mail Voter Act is not only constitutional but it enhances democracy by increasing voter participation and adapting to the modern workplace.

• Launched Leadership Now Arizona, a group of Arizona business and community leaders—Republicans, Independents, and Democrats—who stand for a strong democracy and the protection of election officials. 

• Created Leadership Now’s AI & Campaigns, a guide series to help campaigns navigate AI at various skill levels, along with recommendations specific to misinformation and disinformation threats.

• Recipient of an Anthem Award honoring Leadership Now’s work in Ohio and Wisconsin to ensure elections reflect the will of the people and that election administrators can safely perform their duties.

• CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares authored a series of articles in Fast Company with strategies for preparing for what’s next—focusing on solutions that deliver for Americans, countering threats to your business, and protecting against overreach by political loyalists.

Thank you to our members, advisors, and partners for your invaluable support and collaboration throughout 2024. Our aim for 2025 is to strategically utilize our assets—networks, funds, and expertise—to maintain a check on power and respond to threats against the rule of law; support moderate, action-oriented leaders in Congress and priority states; and advance positive disruptions to improve government effectiveness and reform the political process.

Leadership Now Project is a section 501(c)(4) social welfare organization with a mission to protect and renew American democracy. Project Democracy is a separate, affiliated political organization that supports candidates who share that mission.

Leadership Now Project Endorses Ben Wikler for Chair of the Democratic National Committee

Tuesday, January 21, 2025 – Today, Leadership Now Project has endorsed Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler for Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). 

The DNC Chair will be elected on February 1, 2025, by the 441-member Democratic National Committee.

Leadership Now CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares stated, “We are pleased to endorse Ben Wikler as the next DNC Chair. His track record of securing key victories in Wisconsin has helped strengthen democracy in a highly competitive state. Our experience with Ben is as a unifier, a skilled fundraiser, and a strategist known for modernizing campaigns, building sustainable infrastructure, and understanding today’s evolving communications landscape. His interest in engaging with multiple constituencies, including the business community, on how to improve the Democratic Party is particularly important to Leadership Now. We look forward to bringing our expertise and perspectives to support a stronger DNC moving forward.” 

Tom Florsheim, a Leadership Now Regional Council member from Wisconsin, added, “Ben’s approach to campaigning in Wisconsin—embracing digital tools, effective messaging, and year-round voter engagement—has been deeply effective in our State. We are enthusiastic about Ben having the opportunity to put the Wisconsin playbook to work nationwide.”

Leadership Now’s endorsement of Ben Wikler for DNC Chair is part of our commitment to supporting compelling leaders across sectors and parties who can drive change.

About Leadership Now Project

Founded in 2017, Leadership Now is an organization of business and thought leaders committed to protecting democracy as the foundation of economic success. With members across 30+ states, we are guided by principles rather than partisanship, supporting solutions-focused leaders who uphold the rule of law.

Leadership Now Receives 2024 Anthem Award

We are proud to announce Leadership Now Project is a 2024 Anthem Award recipient for “Protecting Majority Rule in Ohio and Supporting Wisconsin Election Administrators.”

The award recognizes our work in Ohio and Wisconsin to ensure that elections reflect the will of the people and that election administrators can safely do their jobs.

The Anthem Awards, launched by The Webby Awards, recognize innovative projects that inspire social good and build a better future. Selected through over 8,000 jury reviews and 47,000 votes, the winners represent teams making a tangible difference. Leadership Now is in good company, with this year’s honorees including the World Central Kitchen, Google, League of Women Voters, and many more.

This recognition highlights the exceptional leadership of our members and teams in Wisconsin and Ohio. We extend special thanks to Anoop Prakash, Tom Florsheim, and Patrick Guarasci in Wisconsin, as well as Richard Stoff, John Pepper, and Jeni Britton in Ohio, for their tireless efforts in advancing our mission.

The Anthem Award underscores the strength of collective action and would not be possible without the dedication of our members and partners—thank you for being an essential part of this work.

Analysis of Moderate and Swing Women Voters in Key NY Congressional Districts

On October 25, 2024, Leadership Now Project released a memo describing findings from electorate surveying and modeling it conducted in partnership with Applecart in four key NY congressional districts.

The effort surveyed thousands of female voters in two districts on Long Island (NY-01 and NY-04) and two upstate New York districts (NY-18 and NY-19).  Each of the Democratic candidates in those races are Leadership Now Priority Candidates to Watch.

The survey results and modeling illuminate which women voters should truly be considered moderate voters, which are swing voters, what the overlap of moderate and swing voters is, and what messages can best move those voters towards the Democratic candidate. 

There are more moderate / swing voters who affiliate with a party than most assume:

• Of the estimated 149,000 women voters across the four districts who are modeled to be Moderate & Swing voters, 41% are undeclared in terms of party affiliation, while 32% are registered Democrats and 27% are registered Republicans. 

• This compares with the TargetSmart “off the shelf” model which identifies 221,000 “moderate” women voters in the same four districts. They model more than 90% of those moderates as undeclared, with fewer than 10 percent registered as Democrats or Republicans. 

These moderate / swing voters are most persuaded to move towards the Democratic candidate with moderate messaging on abortion that incorporates an economic opportunity message.  That kind of messaging approach can increase support for Democratic candidates by as much as 30% among these voters.

Read the memo here.

Wisconsin Business Leaders File Brief with Wisconsin Supreme Court Arguing Against Removal of WI Elections Chief

Update (February 7, 2025) — The Wisconsin Supreme Court unanimously ruled that Meagan Wolfe, Wisconsin’s top elections official, can continue serving in her role—blocking attempts by lawmakers to remove her.

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On September 25, 2024, Wisconsin Business Leaders for Democracy (WBLD) and Leadership Now Project filed an amicus brief with the Wisconsin Supreme Court backing the Wisconsin Elections Commission (WEC) and its Administrator, Megan Wolfe in Wisconsin Elections Commission v. Lemahieu.

The brief argues the court should affirm the appellate court's ruling and reject the legislature’s effort to remove Wolfe.

“With voting about to begin in Wisconsin, it’s distressing that politicians continue their efforts to remove Wisconsin’s top election administrator,” said Tom Florsheim, a member of the Leadership Now Project “To create an environment where businesses can thrive, we need a democracy that functions efficiently, transparently, and without partisan interference. Fair and impartial election administration is the cornerstone of that democracy.”

In this case, the leadership of the Wisconsin legislature is asking the Wisconsin Supreme Court to order Wolfe removed from her position. This is in spite of the fact that since her confirmation in 2018 by the bipartisan Commission, Wolfe has been recognized for her non-partisan professionalism and success in overseeing elections.

WBLD and Leadership Now, representing business leaders from Wisconsin and across the nation, emphasize that preserving democratic norms is vital to fostering long-term economic growth and stability. The brief warns that attempts to undermine the WEC’s independence and remove Administrator Wolfe ahead of the 2024 election jeopardize the predictability and transparency businesses rely on for decision-making and investment.

The brief highlights the fact that Wisconsin’s independent election administration has been pivotal to the state’s long standing competitiveness, providing both businesses and the public with confidence in the election process. The WEC was designed to be a nonpartisan body that supports over 1,900 local election officials, ensuring the fair execution of elections that protect the will of the people.

“The relentless partisan efforts to disrupt election administration in Wisconsin must stop if we are to be taken seriously as a destination for investment,” said Anoop Prakash, a founding member of WBLD and Wisconsin Chair of the Leadership Now Project. “It’s high time for legislative leaders to stop pursuing wasteful variations of the same false narratives that have been disproved time and time again.”

WBLD and Leadership Now argue that the attacks on Wolfe are not just an assault on election integrity, but also a threat to Wisconsin’s economic future. By undermining public trust in the election process, these political efforts risk creating an environment of uncertainty, leading to instability in the business community.

The amicus brief urges the Wisconsin Supreme Court to affirm the lower court’s ruling, which upheld the WEC’s authority to maintain its leadership and ensure continuity in election administration. In doing so, the court can reinforce that democratic governance—free from partisan interference—is essential to both political and economic health in Wisconsin.

Leadership Now Project Condemns Yesterday's Attack at Former President Trump's Rally

Sunday, July 14, 2024 – Following events at the political rally for former President Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, Leadership Now Project issued the following statement:

“Violence has no place in our political process. We unequivocally condemn yesterday’s attack against former President Trump and express our gratitude to the Secret Service for preventing further harm. We mourn the tragic death of a bystander at the event.

Political violence goes against the core values of American democracy, a system that allows us all to express our views without fear of violence, intimidation or retribution. We must continue to work to restore faith in our democracy and uphold those principles.

This is a time to protect our political process and work out our differences without violence. Leadership Now is committed to working with partners to support a safe and peaceful election process.”

Milken 2024 Global Conference: Can Capitalism Safeguard Democracy?

Leadership Now CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares joined a panel at the 2024 Milken Global Conference to discuss capitalism's role in safeguarding democracy. The panelists concluded that democracy and capitalism, at their best, make each other stronger. However, our failure to fully optimize these systems has resulted in harm rather than mutual reinforcement. They also highlighted significant risks to democracy from the upcoming U.S. election, which could potentially impact the economy and more.

The panel outlined several strategies for business leaders to bolster U.S. democracy in November:

• Granting employees time off to vote

• Encouraging volunteerism at polling stations

• Urging candidates to respect election results

• Calling on business leaders to publicly challenge non-compliant candidates

““The risks of democracy erosion are significant… This is a time for business in America to come off the fence and actually talk about the threats to democracy. Differentiate between the candidates, and support trust in elections.””

— Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO, Leadership Now Project

Daniella was joined by former president of Armenia, Armen Sarkissian; Lucan Way from the University of Toronto; Maria Teresa Kumar of Voto Latino; Hein de Haas from the International Migration Institute; and Matthew Bishop, Chairman of Global Impact Leaders at the Sorenson Institute, who served as moderator.

View the recording of the panel “ Can Capitalism Safeguard Democracy?”. Daniella’s commentary starts at the 22:30 mark.

Business Leaders Emphasize Democracy as Key to Economic Resilience

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2024 

Business Leaders Emphasize Democracy as Key to Economic Resilience

WASHINGTON – Last week, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen gave a speech in Arizona, accompanied by a piece in USA Today emphasizing the critical link between a robust democracy and a thriving economy. 

In response, business leaders are underscoring the urgent need to strengthen democratic principles to sustain economic resilience in the face of mounting election risks, and the importance of fostering an environment where businesses can thrive, innovate, and contribute to societal well-being within a framework of accountable and sturdy democratic institutions.

Through efforts such as convening business leaders and organizations on issues of democracy; educating business leaders at the state and national levels on the growing risks of democratic backsliding; and elevating civic-minded business voices defending democratic principles, the Business & Democracy Initiative and its partners remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic values and institutions that enable our shared prosperity.

Below are quotes from business organizations and leaders: 

Samantha Tweedy, CEO, Black Economic Alliance:

“A strong American democracy is essential for our nation’s sustained economic growth and the progress of economic equity. The evidence is clear that when democratic norms and institutions erode, it leads to economic instability and discriminatory practices that harm all of us and Black communities in particular. As we approach the 2024 elections, the Black Economic Alliance remains committed to advocating for policies that both promote economic resilience and strengthen our democratic processes, ensuring economic health that benefits Black Americans and all Americans.”

Sarah Bonk, Founder & CEO, Business for America:

“The strength of the American economy relies upon our democratic values, and we cannot succeed as a nation if we remain as divided as we are today. Anti-democratic impulses at home, driven by hyperpartisanship, distrust, and growing political divides, are as dangerous as authoritarians abroad. In response, we’re inviting businesses to add democracy to their public policy agendas and to support legislation like the Building Civic Bridges Act to help mend our social fabric and strengthen our democratic institutions.” 

Aron Cramer, President and CEO, BSR:

“Democracy and rule of law are an essential foundation not only for the trust, fairness and transparency that a functioning society requires, but also to enable business to lead the way to a fairer and more sustainable economy. Business is not simply a bystander on these questions: private sector leadership is needed to help reinforce democratic processes, and it is in its interest to do so.  Allowing faith in democracy to erode will also undermine the stability the private sector needs, as well as America’s ability to provide the vision and leadership needed to shape our shared destiny and prosperity.”  

Daryl Brewster, CEO, Chief Executives for Corporate Purpose:

“The role of business today is clear. Business success comes first, but the recipe for business success involves taking care of your employee’s and community’s needs, along with those of other important stakeholders. To do so, companies can apply business skills and resources to addressing relevant societal challenges, prevent the sharing of disinformation, foster empathy through community engagement, create space for dialogues representing different points of view, and develop plans to address issues that could lead to business disruption. It will take all sectors to get us through these trying times, but leading businesses are up to the task.” 

Elizabeth Doty, Director, Corporate Political Responsibility Taskforce, Erb Institute, University of Michigan:

“Shared prosperity and opportunity for future generations depend on well-functioning markets that foster competition and reward long-term value creation. These markets, in turn, depend on a healthy American constitutional democracy, the rule of law; civic freedoms; effective, transparent and accountable civic institutions; and equitable access to civic and political processes for all eligible participants. This is why business leaders across the political spectrum are recognizing they have a shared interest in upholding and protecting trusted American civic institutions, alongside faith organizations, the media, non-government organizations, academia and the military.” 

Steve Fletcher, Green Business Network Director, Green America:

“A strong democracy is essential to economic growth that benefits all Americans, including the many small green business entrepreneurs building thriving businesses across the country. The over 1,500 green businesses in Green America’s Green Business Network encourage all Americans to respect and take part in our nation’s democratic institutions.”

Daniella Ballou-Aares, CEO, Leadership Now Project: 

"Protecting the pillars of democracy is paramount for business leaders, especially in three key areas: ensuring the legitimacy of elections, upholding the rule of law, and safeguarding national security. Without legitimate elections, we risk the erosion of democracy itself. Upholding the rule of law is crucial for maintaining a stable business environment. Business leaders must remain vigilant and take proactive steps to mitigate political risks."

Rhett Buttle, President, Public Private Strategies Institute:

“In our democracy, businesses aren't just bystanders, they’re part of our precious system of government. The free exchange of ideas, goods, and services is the lifeblood of our economies, where every voice counts. Businesses play a vital role in shaping policies that reflect the needs and aspirations of the people they serve. At this crucial moment in history, businesses small and large have a responsibility to safeguard the very essence of democracy, ensuring there’s opportunities for everyone and guaranteeing that the voice of every citizen is heard.” 

Anne Zimmerman, Co-chair, Small Business for America’s Future: 

“The United States built the most powerful economy in the world in no small part due to the stability of our government, which allows entrepreneurs to plan and build a business without worrying about political disruptions and turmoil. Businesses like mine cannot operate in an unpredictable environment, and weakening our democracy erodes the stable foundation that our prosperity is built upon. We must protect democracy, which is key to the economic freedom that allows entrepreneurship to flourish.” 

Ken Powley, CEO and Co-Founder of Team Democracy:

“It’s easy to take for granted the liberties and opportunities afforded by a healthy and functioning democracy. Not the least of those is the freedom to invest in ourselves and in others to build the kinds of thriving enterprises that have elevated and ensured Americans' quality of life for nearly two and a half centuries. Business depends on democracy, and needs to invest in its strength and resilience. Ambivalence is not an option.”

Ron Miller, Chairman, StartEngine:

“Business leaders have a lot to lose if our democracy and the rule of law falls to authoritarian urges. We count on political stability to reduce risk by creating a more predictable operating environment. We also will bear the brunt of even higher interest rates due to the additional uncertainty. Business leaders have an outsized impact on policy and policy makers. Let’s not sleepwalk our way into the economic chaos experienced like we saw when Turkey and Venezuela lost their democracies to authoritarians.”

About the Business & Democracy Initiative

The Business & Democracy Initiative is a partnership of business leaders dedicated to protecting our elections and rebuilding trust in democratic institutions, because we know that a strong democracy is the cornerstone of a dynamic and inclusive American economy. The Business & Democracy Initiative's founding partners are top business leaders and advocates: the Black Economic Alliance, the Leadership Now Project, and Public Private Strategies. We engage stakeholders across all levels of business to advocate for reforms that strengthen our democracy. As the health and stability of American democracy continue to be under serious threat, the business community is a critical voice in the fight to preserve our free, open, and democratic system.

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