"Your voice is the voice that matters most in the debate."

Cody Lusk
President, AIADA
[BIO]


One of the reasons I returned to AIADA is because of my belief in the American entrepreneurial spirit. And I have never witnessed this phenomenon more strongly than in the company of dealers. The people who comprise this dynamic industry are truly what set it apart.

To reflect your ambitious and determined nature you need an association that shares the same qualities. Nobody knows your business better than you and so our organization exists to help you tell your story to Congress.

International automakers have invested over $36 billion in U.S. – based vehicle manufacturing plants and other facilities – with billions more on the way. Since 1990, current employment by International automakers in the U.S. has more than doubled.

Today, these automakers, their suppliers and dealerships generate nearly two million U.S. jobs. International automobile dealers sell 46 percent of all cars and trucks purchased annually in the United States. Of these, 60 percent are produced in the U.S.

In fact, take a look at the best-selling vehicles in the respective industry segments and you are likely to see an International brand at the top of the heap.

So, as crucial issues relating to our industry – trade, taxation, energy, and the environment hit the docket for the 110th Congress it is imperative that the International auto industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, and you the dealers have a voice at the table.

We must work to ensure that our lawmakers are educated about this industry and the work you do every day in communities across America.

You can see we have our work cut out for us. The good news is that we have the facts on our side; the bad news is that in Washington many times the facts do not matter. In Congress the facts often get lost or tossed out for the sake of politics or votes. You see, Washington doesn’t necessarily care about what is right or wrong – good policy is often forsaken in the almighty quest for 218 votes in the House and 60 votes in the Senate. Those who can get the votes win and those who can’t lose.

Coming from the Hill, I know first-hand how difficult it is for Members to register the value of a casual meeting with a constituent in the D.C. office. As members’ schedules grow increasingly hectic your visits are lost in the rapid pace of an average day on Capitol Hill. The reality is that a meeting in Washington does not carry the same weight as a meeting at home.

Home is where their heart and mind are and home is where you are.

As influential businessmen and women connected to your communities – your voice is the voice that matters most in the debate. That is our strength, that is our power, and that is our key to victory.

This is an exciting year of change for our industry and our country. But with change comes uncertainty. At AIADA we are striving to be ahead of the curve.

I'm asking you to join me and the rest of our team as we work to ensure your freedoms are protected.

Best Wishes,

Cody Lusk
President, AIADA