Small businesses are often considered the backbone of the American economy and after several months of tariff whiplash, small business owners report mixed feelings about where things stand.

"I don't think we are out of the woods yet," said Ron Kurnik, owner of a Michigan coffee shop.

Kurnik said he feels the same about the economy as he did when Scripps News spoke to him and other small business owners over the summer.

"I wouldn't give it just a feeling of optimism now at this point," he added.

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Earlier this year, Kurnik raised his prices because of tariffs — and he worries he might have to do it again. Others in the small business community, however, are more hopeful.

According to an index from the U.S. C

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