US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent celebrated Labor Day with a taste of Greece during a visit to two Greek-American restaurants, highlighting the contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Accompanied by Christos Marafatsos, Co-Chair of the “Greeks for Trump” movement, Bessent’s tour of family-owned businesses in Virginia and Washington was a tribute to the values of faith, family, and free enterprise.
During the visit, Bessent praised Greek Americans as “the definition of the American Dream.” He noted that they came to the US with a strong work ethic, built successful businesses, and created opportunities for their communities.
Citing President Trump’s economic policies, Bessent stated:
“President Trump understands that small business owners are the backbone of America, which is why he has lowered taxes, reduced regulations and ensured that hard work is rewarded.”
Strengthening economic ties between the US and Greece
The tour included stops at McLean Family Restaurant, owned by the Kapetanakis family, and Metro 29 Diner, a business run by the Botta and Kanellias families. Marafatsos highlighted the impact of a proposed Trump administration policy that would eliminate taxes on tips and overtime.
“By eliminating taxes on tips and overtime,” he said, “President Trump is putting more money back directly into the hands of workers and small business families.” Bessent also shared his own story of beginning his career at age nine, stating that “hard work, opportunity and reward” are what America is all about.
The visit concluded with Bessent and Marafatsos underscoring the Trump administration’s commitment to empowering small businesses and strengthening economic ties between the United States and Greece.
The event emphasized the significant contributions of immigrants to American life and celebrated the shared values of hard work and entrepreneurship.
Related: ‘Greeks for Trump’ Hold White House Meeting
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