Roger Dow, president and CEO of the Travel Industry Association (TIA), released a statement following President-elect Barack Obama’s historic victory. Dow pledged that the travel industry would support the new administration as it tackles two of the most daunting challenges facing America today: improving the U.S. economy and strengthening America’s image in the international community.
Dow said that travel is uniquely positioned to address both of these challenges. First of all, he said that the industry employs one out of every eight U.S. workers, drives more than $700 billion in spending and is a major economic force in each of the 50 states.
“The small- and medium-sized businesses that make up more than 90 percent of America’s travel community can trigger the kind of bottom-up economic growth and job creation that will put this economy back on track,†Dow said. He added that it can also help America’s image internationally. “Those who have visited the United States are 74 percent more likely to have a favorable opinion of America and its policies than those who have not,†he said. “Nine in 10 travelers who visit the United States tell their friends and neighbors about their experience.
TIA has a positive agenda for change that includes modernizing America’s infrastructure and travel processes, creating jobs and improving the nation’s energy security.†Dow said, adding “we look forward to working closely with President-elect Obama to achieve these goals and build a stronger America.†For more information, visit www.tia.org.
