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The backbone of any thriving society is its private sector. A robust private sector drives innovation, creates jobs, and funds essential social programs. Yet, we’ve allowed a culture of dependency on government to creep in, with the unfortunate result that the private sector is frequently misunderstood, mischaracterized, and even openly attacked by those who would most benefit from its strength.

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To move forward, we need to reduce this dependence on government, encourage private enterprise, and eliminate the layers of red tape and taxes that stifle business growth.

There’s a troubling irony in our society today. The same groups dependent on government support are often the first to criticize the private sector, viewing it as a problem rather than an opportunity. This mindset ignores a crucial truth: our ability to fund social services depends on a thriving economy, and a thriving economy requires a flourishing private sector. Without successful businesses, there are fewer jobs, lower tax revenues, and a diminished capacity to provide the very services people rely on.

At a recent political event, a small businesswoman shared her frustration with the endless hoops and hurdles she must jump through to keep her doors open. Despite her willingness to pay taxes and work hard, she’s met with obstacle after obstacle.

Excessive taxes, mountains of paperwork, and government overreach have left her wondering if it’s even worth it. She’s responsible for five employees, and if she closes her business, they lose their jobs and likely turn to the government for support. Instead of contributing to the economy, she’d become part of the taxpayer-funded network that is increasingly........

© Winnipeg Sun