One of the things holding back businesses from hiring is they were uncertain what was going to happen with taxes. Another thing is that they are uncertain how much Obamacare is going to cost them. Well, the tax issue is settled for now. and with a soon to be Republican controlled house they might see some changes to Obamacare that will be business friendly. So, it being my own opinion, I can see some of these industry leaders laughing at Obama because this has been what they've been waiting for. Not the meeting but assurances that they will not lose money by hiring more people.
