National Restaurant Association Statement on the 2020 National Election

Washington, DC – The following is a statement from Tom Bené, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association on the 2020 national election:

“The National Restaurant Association applauds the election of President-elect Joe Biden, and we look forward to working with his Administration and the new Congress in 2021. The record-setting turnout of this election underscores that now, more than ever, Americans are depending on their elected officials to work together to pass legislation to support the nation’s recovery.  

“So far, 100,000 restaurants of all types have closed across the country, and another 40% are unlikely to make it through the winter without additional relief from the federal government. If just 5% of restaurants close their doors between now and the end of the year, at least half a million jobs would be lost. We must all work together to build a plan that puts the country, and our businesses, on the path to recovery.

“In the coming days and weeks, there will be many discussions about long-term goals and priorities; however, the short-term needs of the restaurant and foodservice industry—the nation’s second-largest, private sector employer—cannot be overlooked. We ask Congress to support proposals that include immediate relief for restaurants and small businesses across the country. Without this assistance, thousands of restaurants will close before a long-term solution can even be considered. We urge Congress and the Trump Administration to return to work quickly and help get the nation on a path towards recovery.”