Q: President-elect Obama has already gone on record as supporting an auto industry bailout. How else do you think a change in administration and a potentially drastic political shift will affect life as an auto parts distributor?
A: I think the "freedom of choice" issue being pressed by labor leaders is the most feared issue facing small and medium businesses. Other than that, I guess our new president and his administration will move the country left on most issues. But, looking back many years from now, they will still be considered as having governed from the center. I think the new administration will need to support our automotive manufacturing business. Even if you don't agree, this might not be a good time to be wrong on such a major subject.
The complete interview will appear in an upcoming issue of Aftermarket Business.
Krista McNamara is the former Editorial Director for the Vehicle Repair Group at Endeavor Business Media. She oversaw five brands — Motor Age, PTEN, Professional Distributor, ABRN and Aftermarket Business World. She worked in the automotive aftermarket industry for more than 15 years.
