NRF president issues statement on U.S. presidential election

Matthew Shay pledges to work with administration and Congress on economic recovery.

National Retail Federation President and CEO Matthew Shay congratulates President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris and pledges to work with the administration and new Congress to mitigate the COVID-19 pandemic and propel the country’s economic recovery.

“After a historic and unprecedented election season, the country has selected our next Commander in Chief through its longstanding democratic process,” he said in a statement. “We must rise above the political rhetoric that has divided our nation and remember we are Americans first. Now is the time to come together and unite around the substantial challenges we face and for the betterment of our country.”

He continued, “As the largest private sector employer in the country, the retail industry looks forward to continuing our tradition of working with presidents and their administrations of both major political parties to advance the industry's priorities in job creation, economic development and career opportunities for millions of Americans. We congratulate President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris on a hard-fought victory.”

Shay acknowledged the resiliency of the retail industry. “Throughout this year’s extraordinary circumstances, retailers have shown their resilience and adaptability and will continue to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our customers, the communities we serve, and the 52 million working Americans supported by the retail industry as we enter a busy holiday season.”