Despite the election, Alabama business owners are optimistic about the economy

A new study reveals that Alabama’s small business owners have a positive outlook about the local economy. It’s an optimism that neither presidential candidate has anything to do with.

The news comes in light of PNC Bank’s fall economic outlook report, which found that 7 in 10 Alabama business owners are optimistic about the local economy. When asked about their feelings on the national economy, slightly fewer shared a positive attitude. 55 percent of the state’s small business owners said they believe the country’s economy is on the right track.

Additionally, when business owners were asked to describe their feelings about future growth prospects, 40 percent said they felt “hope.” 17 percent said “fear” and 11 percent said “anger.”

While the recent views of small business owners struck an optimistic note overall compared to a similar survey from April, it seems that the election has little to do with their confidence. Almost half- 48 percent- say they are not satisfied with how Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump have addressed issues relating to their businesses.

PNC Bank economist Mekael Teshome said that the state’s economy is expected to grow in upcoming quarters. Despite the fact that many are unhappy with the presidential prospects, it won’t stop most from hiring and growing their businesses.

“Our fall 2016 survey shows small and mid-sized business owners in Alabama are optimistic about the next six months,” Teshome said. “More plan to add employees despite lower expectations for sales and profits. But they are dissatisfied with the plans of both presidential candidates.”

While the PNC Bank survey didn’t reveal which candidate small business owners would favor, a recent national poll indicates that Trump prevails over Clinton. Commissioned by Manta, a social network for small business owners, the survey found that 59 percent said they would support the GOP nominee in November.