ABC Statement on President Trump’s Address to Joint Session of Congress

WASHINGTON —Associated Builders and Contractors today released the following statement from President and CEO Michael Bellaman in response to President Donald J. Trump’s address to a joint session of Congress:

“The Trump administration’s focus on merit-based, commonsense policies over the past month and a half has been a breath of fresh air for ABC and its 23,000 members. For 75 years, competition has driven countless lasting successes for ABC contractors and small businesses throughout in the industry, which employs 8.3 million people, adds over $2 trillion annually to our economy and builds infrastructure that lifts up our communities and enhances our lives in every way. Merit is a philosophy that works for nearly 90% of the construction workforce who build America, and it must continue to be a top priority for this administration. Prioritizing merit helps taxpayers get the best possible infrastructure products at the best possible price.

“Under the Trump administration, ABC contractor member confidence and backlog are on the rise, and its deregulatory approach creates tailwinds that reduce burdens on the regulated community.

“I encourage President Trump to keep the American dream at the forefront of his focus. All Americans––nonunion and union––deserve leaders who will create the conditions so that every worker and job creator can choose how to achieve their career dreams and prosper in a safe and healthy environment.

“ABC looks forward to working with the Trump administration and Congress to advance policies that prioritize fair and open competition, preserve worker choice and solve the issues that the construction industry faces, including the skilled labor shortage of 439,000 in 2025 alone, widespread regulatory burdens, inflation and tax challenges.”