ASBN Stands for the Rule of Law and Responsible Governance

Change is a natural and expected part of any transition in leadership, and the American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) recognizes that shifts in policy and governance are an inherent and necessary part of our democracy. However, change must happen within the frameworks and principles that have guided our country—designed to balance economic stability, social progress, democracy, and the rule of law.

Instead, we are witnessing unprecedented actions that undermine the very legal and institutional frameworks that have allowed businesses, communities, and individuals to thrive. We are also witnessing the unprecedented abuse of the budget reconciliation process to force deeply unpopular cuts to vital public policy investments and social services. These cuts, if enacted, will irreparably harm vulnerable working Americans and small businesses to benefit a small number of extremely wealthy individuals and corporations. The dismantling of critical programs, efforts to circumvent congressional and judicial oversight, attempts to erode legal protections, and the subversion of our system of checks and balances by domineering power politics threaten not only democratic principles but also economic stability and the trust upon which our markets depend.

At ASBN, we believe that change is essential for progress, but it must be pursued in an ethical, legal, and orderly manner. While not always perfect, our nation’s legal and economic systems were built with careful consideration of both human and financial costs, and any changes to them must be approached with the same level of responsibility. Ignoring legal due process, violating employees’ rights, strong-arming Congress, and blocking American citizens from exercising their constitutional rights undermines our democracy. These actions weaken our system of checks and balances, creating instability that harms businesses, workers, and communities alike. The budget reconciliation process, while lawful, is being wielded in a way that disregards the will of the people and will result in devastating cuts to popular programs. It is deeply concerning that this process could only succeed through threats and political pressure, forcing members to vote against the interests of their constituents or risk retaliation from within the government. .

We support a government that upholds due process, respects the institutions that safeguard economic and social stability, and ensures that change occurs through proper legal channels accountable to the will of the people. The courts have already begun to serve as a bulwark against unlawful actions, reinforcing the fundamental principle that no administration, regardless of political affiliation, is above the law. Businesses must not be afraid to make their voices heard and to hold elected officials to account for the decisions they make.

Business leaders understand that long-term success depends on stability, predictability, and adherence to established rules. Sudden and arbitrary changes, especially those made without regard for legal processes, create uncertainty that undermines U.S. investment, job creation, and economic growth. No thriving economy can function under conditions of legal and regulatory unpredictability.

Furthermore, the refusal to implement legally mandated programs and the arbitrary reallocation of congressional appropriations are not only a violation of the rule of law—they also disrupt the economic and social fabric that businesses rely upon to undergird free enterprise. A government that does not respect the legal structures governing economic policy puts at risk the very businesses that drive prosperity. Legal mechanisms that enact deeply unpopular policies through threats and coercion undermines the democratic process and erodes public trust.

At ASBN, we do not oppose change. We embrace progress and advocate for policies that create a more just, sustainable, and inclusive economy. We advocate for efficient government agencies that are able to fulfill their obligations. However, we insist that change must be pursued through lawful and established processes, and that those processes are not used to inflict harm on the American people. We call upon elected officials, business leaders, and civil society to stand together in defense of the rule of law, checks and balances, and democratic accountability.

We urge policymakers to recognize that accountability and adherence to legal frameworks are not  partisan issues—they are the foundations of a stable and functioning democratic society. The American people and the business community deserve governance that is predictable, responsible, legally sound, and ethically driven. A government truly accountable to its people must prioritize the well-being of all, not just the privileged few. ASBN will continue to advocate for a strong economy for all businesses regardless of size, a fair and just legal system and a working democracy, ensuring that any changes to our economic and social structures are made with the consideration, transparency, and integrity that our democracy demands.