Marketplace How small businesses navigated the ICE strike
20 snips
Jan 30, 2026 
Carla Javier, a reporter who interviewed small businesses about decisions around the national shutdown, shares stories of owners balancing protest and payroll. Elizabeth Troval, an energy and investment reporter, explains why big oil profits make Venezuela investment risky. Catherine Rampell, an opinion columnist, lays out critiques of Fed policy and what Kevin Warsh's views signal for monetary and fiscal roles.
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Warsh's Mixed Record Shapes Confirmation
- Kevin Warsh is a familiar Fed figure known for criticizing Fed policies over time.
- His views shifted from hawkish inflation concerns to criticizing high rates and quantitative easing, complicating his confirmation narrative.
Big Oil Is Staying Disciplined
- Major oil companies are avoiding big new investments because the market is oversupplied and prices are low.
- Firms now prioritize free cash flow and low-risk projects, reducing appetite for large bets like Venezuela.
Businesses Chose Solidarity Over Sales
- Fannie Gerson asked her immigrant staff whether to stay open or close and they unanimously chose to shut down in solidarity.
- T.J. Samanshin closed Wonder State Coffee despite an estimated near-$10,000 hit to show solidarity with the movement.