January CEO Update

2025 marks a remarkable milestone—the 52nd year of the American Legislative Exchange Council’s tireless commitment to equipping and empowering state leaders to shape America’s future. For over half a century, ALEC has stood as a beacon of limited government, free markets, and federalism—principles that are as timeless as they are vital to preserving our republic.

As we closed the chapter on a successful States and Nation Policy Summit in Washington, D.C., where we added 32 new ALEC model policies and unveiled our 2025 Essential Policy Solutions, the road ahead remains filled with promise. But let me be clear: this is no time for complacency. History teaches us that those who grow complacent are left behind while the world moves forward.

That’s why we remain focused on innovation and action. Just last month, we adopted a model policy condemning the Chinese Communist Party’s manipulation of international organizations to exclude Taiwan. By distorting United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, the CCP has barred Taiwan from critical bodies like INTERPOL and the International Civil Aviation Organization. This undermines the global rules-based order, emboldens Beijing’s dangerous claims of “reunification,” and deprives the world of Taiwan’s vital contributions. ALEC’s resolution reaffirms our steadfast support for Taiwan’s constitutional self-governance—a stand for freedom that resonates far beyond Asia.

At home, we have taken another bold step with the creation of the ALEC Veterans and Military Affairs Task Force. Far too often, those who sacrifice for our nation find themselves neglected when their service ends. From health challenges to legal and family struggles, our veterans face an uphill battle they should never have to fight alone. ALEC’s task force aims to address these issues at the state level, ensuring our heroes receive the support, services, and respect they’ve earned. It’s a small but essential step toward honoring their profound sacrifices.

These efforts are just a snapshot of our far-reaching work, which touches every corner of domestic and international policy. From education reform to tax policy, from worker freedom to healthcare transparency, we are engaged on every front. And we are making a difference.

We see it in groundbreaking reports like Rich States, Poor States, Labor Policy Reform, and the ALEC Index of State Education Freedom. We see it in impactful new model policies like the Internet Free Speech Act, the Energy Choice Resolution on Natural Gas, and the Ten Guiding Principles for Consideration of Grants. We see it in ourpartnerships with organizations likeRun GenZ and the Education Freedom Alliance.

Whether it’s the launch of the ALEC Government Efficiency Coalition, trips to the southern border, legislator academies, or visiting Congress to support making the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act permanent, ALEC’s mission is clear: to defend and advance the values that make America exceptional.

But the real victories come from you—our dedicated legislators. You are on the front lines, fighting for your constituents, your communities, and your states. Your work isn’t easy; it demands sacrifice and resilience. Yet, you embrace the challenge, knowing that the battle for freedom is worth every effort.

So, as we step boldly into 2025, let’s resolve to make this year one for the history books. Together, we can amplify the spirit of limited government, free markets, and federalism in every statehouse across this great land. There’s much to do, but with your determination and unwavering support, I’m confident we will achieve extraordinary things.

Let’s get to work. America’s future depends on it.