ALEC Leaders Unite in Indianapolis Discussing America’s Future: Jonathan Williams on The Hugh Hewitt Show

Appearing on The Hugh Hewitt Show, ALEC President and Chief Economist Jonathan Williams discussed all the updates from the ALEC Annual Meeting in Indianapolis and how more than 1,500 state legislators, policy leaders, and advocates from across the country converged on Indiana’s capital, marking one of the organization’s most well-attended summits in recent history.

“We have 1,500 of our closest conservative friends here,” said Williams to Hewitt. “Record ALEC attendance in recent years. Wish you were here, but we’ll get you next time.”

The multi-day event featured robust policy discussions, keynote addresses, and task force meetings on a wide range of state-level legislative priorities. At the top of the agenda: tax reform, education freedom, election integrity, and veterans’ affairs.

Among the most talked-about topics was a proposal for a 0% flat tax. “We’re talking about a wide range of issues,” said Williams, referencing Ohio’s recent move to 2.75% flat tax under Senate President Matt Huffman. “Future Governor Ramaswamy talked…about that goal to make Ohio a powerhouse of the Midwest again.”

The conference also spotlighted a newly passed federal initiative dubbed the “one big, beautiful bill,” which includes a $1,700 school choice deduction starting in 2027 for states that opt in. “Legislators [were] asking…‘How do we opt in?’” Williams said. “States essentially can raise their hand and say, ‘We want to be a part of it.’”

Education reform remained a focal point throughout the event. “It’s part of the school choice revolution that’s swept the states,” Williams said, highlighting Idaho’s legislative advances and ALEC’s role in helping states craft enabling frameworks.

Governor Mike Braun of Indiana closed the summit Friday morning. “We’ll wrap up with Governor Braun with a great discussion breakfast,” said Williams, noting the week will also conclude with remarks from U.S. Senator Jim Banks, a former ALEC chair.

Two new task forces made their official debut: one on veterans and military affairs, and another focused-on election process and procedures. “It was a full room…so many veterans from different branches talking about these key issues,” Williams said.

As the conference wrapped, the tone was optimistic. “It’s been a phenomenal, record-setting week,” Williams said. “Conservative solutions are alive and well—and gaining momentum.”

For ongoing updates and policy releases, Williams directed viewers to “the ALEC homepage to find out what they did this week and what they’re going to be doing all of this year and now.”