December CEO Update
As 2024 comes to a close, please know that everyone at ALEC is here to support you as we embark on 2025.
For those who joined us in Washington, DC this week for our ALEC States and Nation Policy Summit, it was truly a week to remember. From walking the historic halls of Capitol Hill and engaging directly with House Speaker Mike Johnson, this gathering captured the spirit of ALEC and the power of federalism at work.
The journey began Monday evening with a tour of the U.S. Capitol. As we walked through the very heart of our democratic process, we felt the weight of history and the profound responsibility that comes with governance. Speaker Johnson, an ALEC alum, shared stirring reflections on the enduring importance of federalism, reminding us of its critical role in securing freedom.
Tuesday was a celebration of excellence. Adele Malpass, President of the Daily Caller News Foundation, was honored with the prestigious Warren Brookes Award for Excellence in Journalism. Stand Together was recognized with the Scalia Award for Restoring the Balance of Government, and Indiana Governor-elect Mike Braun received the Laffer Award for Economic Excellence. Susie Schooff and Nels Rude were named Private Sector State Chairs of the Year, while Kentucky’s delegation earned Public Sector State Chair of the Year honors.
Among our legislators, Senator Arthur Orr (Alabama), Representative Ben Baker (Missouri), and Senator Jessica de la Cruz (Rhode Island) were celebrated as Legislators of the Year. Senator Rob McColley (Ohio) was recognized with the Election Integrity Award, and Senator Lonnie Paxton (Oklahoma) received the Bob Williams Award for Policy Leadership.
Wednesday opened with a spirited ALEC tradition: the announcement of the 2024 Gregor G. Peterson Prize winners Debbie Myers and John Solomon, by Nicole Hopkin and Eric Peterson. This was followed by a dynamic breakdown of the 2024 elections by former Speaker Newt Gingrich, along with his thoughts on what’s next for governance in America. Renowned pollster Scott Rasmussen added his insightful take on the recent election outcomes, providing valuable context and perspectives for the road ahead.
Thursday’s lunch was a masterclass in policy and leadership. DOGE Co-Leader Vivek Ramaswamy delivered an energizing keynote, followed by an impactful discussion featuring Iowa Senator Joni Ernst, Kansas Congressman Ron Estes, and Dr. O.J. Oleka of the State Financial Officers Foundation. Their focus on cutting government waste and reining in spending left the room buzzing with actionable ideas.
We also unveiled ALEC’s 2025 Essential Policy Solutions report, a roadmap for states to champion limited government, free markets, and federalism. This indispensable resource ensures you’ll head into the new year armed with strategies to transform your state.
To those who joined us this week, thank you for taking time during this busy holiday season. For those who couldn’t join us, we encourage you to explore the sessions here so you can experience the week’s impactful discussions for yourself. We hope you’ll be able to join us at one of our upcoming events, starting with our 52nd Annual Meeting in Indianapolis from July 16th to 18th.
As 2024 comes to a close, please know that everyone at ALEC is here to support you as we embark on 2025. I feel incredibly proud of what we have accomplished this year and know that next year will be even more impressive. I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year, and a season filled with joy and purpose.