Small businesses more confident on economy

WASHINGTON, Sept. 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. Chamber of Commerce says small businesses are more optimistic about economic prospects.

The Washington-based group found of the 1,335 business owners surveyed, 85 percent were somewhat or very optimistic that the economy will grow during the next two to three years. It also found 75 percent of respondents believe President Bush's policies would be better for their businesses "in terms of jobs, taxes, legal reform, and the overall economy."

The chamber's president, Tom Donahue, said that while the lobbying group does not endorse presidential candidates, it supports "a pro-business political agenda" that includes deregulation, tax reform, and boosting trade.