The High Cost of Political Violence: Business Leaders Must Take a Stand

America cannot survive if violence replaces debate. Threats and intimidation are not politics; they are poison. Political violence is not a form of participation—it is a betrayal of our country’s core values. It endangers lives, undermines freedom, and erodes the foundation of our democracy.

As Theodore Roosevelt once said, “The fundamental rule in our national life—the rule which underlies all others—is that, on the whole, and in the long run, we shall go up or down together.” That truth remains as urgent today as it was a century ago.

Political violence also carries a profound cost—not only moral, but economic. Stability is the bedrock of prosperity. Businesses rely on predictable laws, functioning institutions, and social trust. When violence destabilizes our politics and society, it weakens our economy, discourages investment, and jeopardizes growth.

History shows that America is strongest when we face our differences with mutual respect and curiosity. Disagreement is natural and healthy in a free society; violence is not. For business, political instability means disruption, uncertainty, and risk—not just for companies, but for workers, customers, and communities alike.

A truly free society rests on the promise that people can take part in civic life without fear of violence. We must never allow America to become a place where expressing political views—even controversial ones—leads to threats or harm. Any act of political violence is an attack against us all. Business for America unequivocally condemns such violence and the rhetoric that fuels it—no matter who says it or what power they hold. Our republic cannot endure if violence and intimidation become normalized in our politics.

“Business leaders understand that our democratic and economic institutions rise or fall together,” said Sarah Bonk, founder and CEO of Business for America. “Our members are united in the belief that political violence has no place in America. We need to stand together, across industries and political divides, to keep our republic strong.”

In an era of division, leaders in every sector bear responsibility to speak out with moral clarity.

We call on political leaders — left, right, and center — to reject violence unequivocally, lower the temperature of our political discourse, and model respectful debate for the nation. Every public official and candidate has a responsibility to put country over party and ensure that our democratic system remains strong for generations to come.

We call on business leaders to recognize that our democracy underpins our economic success — and take action. That means we must speak out against violent extremism, support reforms that strengthen civic institutions, and work together to foster a system of government that makes prosperity possible.

Business for America is committed to restore trust and strengthen the ties that bind us as Americans. These are not partisan goals—they are patriotic imperatives. The health of our economy and the future of our democracy depend on us.