Presidential candidate John Kasich visits Scout Boats

Ohio Governor John Kasich recently threw his hat in the ring as a Presidential candidate, and one of his first stops across the country was at the Scout Boats manufacturing facility and headquarters Friday.

Gov. Kasich and his camp chose Scout due to its reputation in the industry, continued job creation, company growth and market expansion over the years.

During the visit, Gov. Kasich took the opportunity to hold a town forum style meeting with the public. Scout’s brand new 24,000 square foot addition at the facility was transformed into the venue for the forum, and housed national media as well as local residents for the big event.

“I am always inspired by small business owners who pour their life savings and their passion into their dreams, and that is certainly what is happening at Scout Boats with the work of Steve and Dianne Potts,” said Kasich. “Small business owners are the engines of free enterprise. Government doesn’t create jobs, small businesses create jobs. It’s the job of leaders to create the climate where they can succeed and help lift up our communities and families. As president my mission will be to create the climate for small businesses to succeed all across the country so that we can see more success stories like Scout Boats.”

“It’s an honor for our company and the way we do business to be recognized by someone of this national caliber,” said Scout CEO & Founder Steve Potts. “Regardless of political party lines or views, we support solid business practices and will continue to make every effort to not only grow our company and employ workers, but to provide these workers with the most positive environment we can.”

The NMMA was also represented during the event by vice president of federal and legal affairs Nicole Vasilaros.

“NMMA thanks Governor Kasich for visiting Scout Boats and acknowledging the important role marine manufacturing plays in the U.S. economy,” said Vasilaros. “The recreational marine industry supports 650,000 jobs in nearly 35,000 businesses. Scout Boats is a prime example of how important small businesses are to job creation as well as the continued growth of U.S. exports and manufacturing.”