There was nary an empty seat at the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber’s Investing in America’s Future Luncheon on Thursday at The Coeur d’Alene Resort. 

The event presented by the Coeur d’Alene Tribe brought together business leaders, community members, and regional stakeholders to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States. 

"We live in a great country — live in an area second to none,” said chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe Chief Allan. “And we believe in business — small business makes things go round and round.” 

Gov. Brad Little spoke briefly about celebrating America's 250th birthday before introducing Brandon Beach, the current U.S. Treasurer, who was the keynote speaker.

“It’s worth reflecting how extraordinary our nation’s story really is,” Little said. “Generation after generation, Americans have defended freedom through sacrifice, courage, innovation and hard work. The story is never about guaranteeing outcomes — it’s all about protecting opportunities. That spirit is alive and well here in Idaho.” 

Beach spoke about emerging national initiatives, such as Trump Accounts and what they could mean for long-term financial security and opportunity across the country. 

The Trump Accounts is a pilot program at the Treasury that gives a child $1,000 who is born between now and 2028. 

"We're also going to have companies and other philanthropic folks donate $5,000 a year,” Beach said. “So, if a child gets $5,000 a year for 18 years, economists predict that child will have $303,000 in his or her Trump Account. That's a big deal.” 

The idea behind this, Beach said, is to teach kids about financial literacy and compounding interest. 

“We’re investing in kids because we want them to be invested in our country. And it’ll produce capitalism,” Beach said. “I think this is the greatest program we’ve ever done."

He also spoke about strategic investments in infrastructure and economic development, and about how business leadership can drive prosperity for generations to come. 

“We can create a conducive environment through fair trades, tariffs, even playing fields, low taxes, less regulations and provide an educated workforce — whatever we must do for a 21st century infrastructure,” Beach said. “If we can do that and get the hell out of the way, you’ll all prosper, create jobs and create economic opportunity for your kids and grandkids.” 

Beach said the passage of the Big Beautiful Bill and the recent appointment of Kevin Warsh as the new Fed chairman will also have a significant impact on the country's economy. 

“You’re going to see a lot of things happening because of the no tax on Social Security, tips and overtime as that money will recirculate,” Beach said. “I believe the appointment of Warsh will bring interest rates down, and that will help the housing market. The GDP is at 4.4%. I think it could go to 5%. And if we can end the conflict with Iran, gas prices can return to the $2-a-gallon range." 

He ended his presentation by challenging everyone in the room. 

“This is our 250-year birthday, and we’re proud to be Americans, so let's tell people how great we have it,” Beach said. “Let’s talk about our country. Let’s be positive. We may disagree on policies, but we should love this country and love to be here in the United States of America.” 

    The Coeur d'Alene Tribe Walking Antelope Singers perform at the Investing in America's Future event on Thursday.
  

    Gov. Little expresses the need to invest in America's future.
  

    The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office Honor Guard is marching toward the stage for the Presentation of the Colors.
  

    Chief Allan of the Coeur d'Alene Tribe.