Michigan Congressman Hosts Small Business Roundtable Featuring Political Consultant
A recent event in Michigan led by Rep. Tom Barrett centered on conversations with small business owners about a significant Republican budget, highlighting the presence of a prominent Republican donor.
Held on August 20, the roundtable discussion was advertised as a gathering of small business proprietors aimed at discussing the potential advantages of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a budget initiative sanctioned by President Donald Trump on July 4.
“We are taking historic action to protect our small businesses, cut costs for working families, and give a much needed boost to Michigan’s economy,” Barrett shared on X, capturing moments from the event which also included participation from Small Business Administrator Kelly Loeffler.
Among the attendees, Scott Greenlee stood out as the founder of Greenlee Consulting based in Grand Rapids. Barrett acknowledged Greenlee Consulting as a participant in a separate X post.
Greenlee, known as a seasoned political consultant, has been a significant figure in Michigan’s political landscape, with his firm receiving over $200,000 since 2010 to offer guidance to multiple Republican campaigns, including that of Tudor Dixon, a far-right gubernatorial candidate. The firm’s contributions are detailed in campaign finance records as “consulting” and “consulting on robocalls.”
In his personal capacity, Greenlee has extended financial support to various Republican politicians, including Barrett, to whom he donated $1,916.10 this year alone.
Greenlee also leads the Patriots Fund, a political action committee registered in Michigan. Notably, Barrett is the sole 2026 candidate with the backing of the Patriots Fund.
Despite the inclusion of a tax reduction for small businesses in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, there are concerns that such benefits may be negated by escalating prices and tariffs.
The Detroit Regional Chamber expressed skepticism, noting, “About 242,000 small businesses import goods each year … and many are already struggling with rising costs and uncertainty.”
Representing Michigan’s 7th District, encompassing a substantial portion of Lansing, Barrett is seeking reelection. However, he faces the challenge of being one of the more vulnerable Republican incumbents in the upcoming term.
The original report on this story was published by American Journal News.
