Technology entrepreneur from Raleigh speaks out against a Trump/Pence ticket

by Sara Ritsch
Staff Writer

Brooks Bell, a technology entrepreneur from Raleigh, N.C., had a stroke six months after starting a new company. She had to relearn to read, write and talk. An entrepreneur of a small business with big dreams, Bell is the founder of a company that assists consumer brands in getting their messages out to the public. 

While speaking at the Democratic National Convention on Wednesday, she mirrored her health and business struggles to some of the hard choices Hillary Clinton has made during her 30 years in the political spotlight.

"She also carries battle scars," Bell said, continuing on, citing "her tenacity and toughness — her seasoned judgment — is exactly what we need in a president."

"My company is strong, as is my health, thanks in part to ongoing investment in education, health care, and innovation." Bell said, referencing changes fought for by the Democratic Party like universal healthcare. She then jokingly added "Thanks, Obama!"

However, all of the steps and changes Bell has taken over the course of the Obama administration will mean nothing, she thinks, if Trump is elected.

"I am worried — terrified — about what might happen if we elect Trump. I'm not just scared for my business, but for other young entrepreneurs like me," she said, citing HB2 and the ensuing trouble for North Carolina businesses. 

Audible anger and boos ensued from the audience. 

The New York Times described North Carolina as “a pioneer in bigotry" after the bathroom bill  was introduced. While many business owners like Bell consider the bill “morally wrong," they have begun to notice its “immediate and dramatic effect on state economy.” North Carolina watched the NBA and other large companies take hundreds of good jobs and an All Star basketball game out of town. "190 million dollars and counting," Bell said sadly, referencing the current loss as a result of HB2.

By choosing Mike Pence as running mate, who signed a similar bill in Indiana with disastrous consequences, the idea of a Trump Presidency is "one of top ten risks to world economy" Bell insists. 

A Hillary Clinton presidency, Bell thinks, is the only smart decision for small business owners and young entrepreneurs.

"The story of my startup is the story of America because how we write our next chapter is up to us." she said.

Bell's husband, Jesse Lispon, spoke Monday at the convention, similarly blasting HB2 and the general transphobia of North Carolina lawmakers and the GOP.

Morgan Allen contributed to this report.
Copyright The Gayly - 7/27/2016 @ 5:25 p.m. CDT