by 
CEO and Co-Founder | American Roots
Ben Waxman is a Portland native, third-generation textile entrepreneur, and Co-Founder of American Roots, a 100% American-made textile and apparel company based in Westbrook, Maine. Founded in 2015, American Roots produces high-quality, affordable clothing with all-American materials, serving both business-to-business and direct-to-consumer markets.
Before starting the company, Ben had a 20-year career in politics, including working in the National AFL-CIO President’s office under Richard Trumka. In 2013, he left politics to return to Portland with his fiancée, Whitney, and together start American Roots with a focus on creating good jobs and making things in America. Since then, the company has grown rapidly, employing nearly 80 USW 366 members and expanding into national and international markets. In 2024, American Roots secured major contracts with unions and sports organizations, including AFSCME, IAFF, and the NWSLPA.
Ben also serves on the TCFCU Credit Union Board of Advisors and the United Way Board of Directors. He lives in Westbrook with his wife, Whitney, and their three sons.
