Free enterprise isn’t an abstract ideology in Eagle County. It’s not something we debate only during election years or read about in economics textbooks. It’s something we live every day.

It’s the small business owner in Eagle trying to expand but stuck in a permitting process that takes longer than the construction itself. It’s the ski industry innovator in Avon experimenting with new technology to improve safety and efficiency. It’s the childcare provider in Edwards trying to stay afloat amid rising costs and workforce shortages. And it’s the entrepreneur in Gypsum who has an idea, a plan, and the grit to make it work…if the state regulatory policy environment allows them to do so.

That’s why a recent op-ed by U.S. Chamber of Commerce CEO Suzanne Clark resonated so strongly. Her central message is refreshingly clear: trusting markets—and trusting the American people—requires deliberate policy choices. Free enterprise doesn’t flourish by accident. It thrives when government creates stable conditions that encourage innovation, investment, and competition.

Clark underscores a point business leaders across Colorado understand well. Policymakers must provide a regulatory environment that is predictable and functional. That doesn’t mean eliminating rules. It means crafting smart, consistent policies that give businesses confidence to invest and grow. When regulations shift constantly or approvals stretch on indefinitely, the market can’t respond and communities suffer the consequences.

Housing is the most obvious example in Eagle County. We all agree that workforce housing is a crisis. But good intentions alone won’t build homes. Until we modernize permitting, streamline approvals, remove unnecessary barriers, and find funding sources, supply will remain constrained. Free enterprise can help solve this problem, but only if we allow it to operate efficiently with the support of the community.

Clark also emphasizes the importance of policies that empower markets, including tax reform, deregulation, and permitting reform. These aren’t partisan buzzwords. They are practical tools that help businesses plan for the long term. In a high-cost state like Colorado, where employers already face challenges related to labor, transportation, and housing, policy stability isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

Another critical area Clark addresses is artificial intelligence. Too often, the conversation around AI is driven by fear. Clark argues that fear-based policies would do real harm, including ceding global leadership to China and other competitors.

Here in Eagle County, AI is already improving business efficiency, reducing energy use, enhancing healthcare diagnostics, supporting destination management, and helping businesses operate more sustainably. The answer isn’t to slam the brakes. It’s to lead by embracing innovation, regulating it intelligently, and preparing workers for the future of work.

That preparation matters deeply in our region. Free enterprise depends on people who are skilled, adaptable, and ready to evolve. That means rethinking education and workforce training, expanding career and technical pathways, supporting apprenticeships, and encouraging lifelong learning.

Critics often argue that free markets are imperfect. They’re right. But as Clark notes, free enterprise remains the most effective system we have for generating opportunity, innovation, and prosperity, and by correcting itself over time.

We see that self-correction locally. Businesses respond to labor shortages by raising wages, improving benefits, and investing in training. Employers adapt to environmental realities by innovating around sustainability and efficiency. That constant evolution is a strength, not a weakness.

At a time when political rhetoric increasingly leans toward control, protectionism, and distrust, it’s worth recognizing what works. Free enterprise built Colorado’s economy. It sustains Eagle County’s quality of life. And when paired with smart, stable policy, it remains our best path forward.

Trust the markets. Trust the people. And let free enterprise do what it has always done best—right here at home.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com