In America, small business is a big deal.

A good day for Barack Obama is anytime the dominant topic of discussion is anything but the economy.

What Democrats haven't focused on are the kind of policies that would promote economic growth - such as making permanent the 2001/2003 tax cuts, opening up federal lands to more energy production, and reforming government to reduce its burden on business.

Memo to Congress: America's problem is not that government is too small. It's the spending, stupid!

In America, small business is a big deal.

Paul Ryan is a nationally tested leader that is widely known and respected.

As state and federal lawmakers debate the country's energy policies and Colorado's role in the ever-expanding energy economy, let's hope they remember that unnecessary regulations stifle growth while doing nothing for public safety or health.