For years, a large portion of the American public has bought into the idea that electing someone with a business background could magically fix the government. The belief goes something like this: “If a person can run a successful company, surely they can manage the country just as effectively.” But this mindset is fundamentally flawed. Running a government isn’t, and shouldn’t be, the same as running a corporation. The priorities are completely different, and confusing the two can lead to disastrous outcomes.
First, let’s get one thing clear—governments are not profit-making entities. Businesses exist to generate income, cut costs, and maximize returns for shareholders. Governments, on the other hand, are meant to serve the people. Their role is to ensure safety, improve quality of life, provide essential services, and build a better future for everyone, not just the wealthy or the well-connected. When we treat government like a business, we risk sidelining the vulnerable, reducing services, and turning citizens into mere numbers on a balance sheet.
Moreover, the skill sets required for public service vastly differ from those needed to run a company. Business leaders often make decisions based on market trends and profitability. But in public service, decisions must consider equity, justice, and long-term impact on diverse communities. A successful government leader needs empathy, vision, and a deep commitment to public good—traits that don’t necessarily guarantee success in a corporate boardroom, and vice versa.
It’s also worth noting that not every businessperson is actually successful. Sometimes the individuals presented as experienced entrepreneurs come with questionable histories, bankruptcies, or failed ventures. Electing someone solely based on their business résumé, without a thorough look at their actual track record, can backfire badly. When the promise of strong leadership turns into mismanagement or ethical failures, it erodes public trust and damages institutions.
In the end, governing is about people—not profits. It’s about improving lives, creating opportunities, and shaping a future where everyone can thrive. Leaders must be chosen based on their vision for society and their ability to uplift others—not just their familiarity with spreadsheets or balance sheets. The belief that a business background alone makes someone qualified to lead a nation is not only misleading—it has already proven to be a costly mistake.
