Final answer:
Option E, which states that consumers prefer local stores because they offer goods on credit, strengthens the lobbyists' stance the most. This choice illustrates the unique value of local businesses which could be undercut by a chain like Best Goods. The preference for local credit services highlights the potential negative impact large chains can have on local economies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question regards the impact that large department store chains, like Best Goods, might have on local economies and the opposition they face upon entering new markets. Among the options provided, option E would strengthen the lobbyists' case the most. This is because if many consumers prefer local stores because they offer goods on credit, this demonstrates a unique value that local stores provide, which cannot be replicated by a large chain store like Best Goods. Moreover, local stores' credit services contribute to their competitiveness and community relationships, which could be threatened by Best Goods' presence.
Options A and D do not specifically strengthen the lobbyists' argument against the entry of Best Goods, while B—highlighting job creation—would actually weaken their position. Option C, regarding low unemployment levels, doesn't necessarily argue for the negative impact of Best Goods, although it might suggest that the city’s economy is not in need of the jobs Best Goods may offer.
Therefore, the assertion that local consumers' preference due to credit offerings by smaller stores supports the lobbyists' argument about preserving local businesses, which in turn may help to prevent income inequality and unemployment issues subsequent to Best Goods' setup.