"CEOs who shy away from defending democracy do so at their peril"

Leadership Now CEO Daniella Ballou-Aares, speaking with Stephanie Mehta at Fast Company, emphasized that supporting the legitimacy of elections transcends partisan lines. “It’s about upholding the rule of law and instilling trust in American institutions,” she said, noting that a stable democracy strengthens the economy and provides a secure environment for business growth.

As distrust in government and media grows, companies have a unique opportunity to support civic engagement in a nonpartisan way. By offering employees time off to vote and sharing factual information on the electoral process, businesses can help bridge the gap in public trust. CEOs who take these steps are investing in the long-term health of both democracy and their organizations.

“CEOs who avoid engaging with democracy-related issues risk undermining the stability that enables their businesses to thrive,’ Ballou-Aares continued. ‘In today’s polarized climate, standing up for voting rights and election processes is not just a moral decision—it’s a business imperative."

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