Senator Mike Braun Receives the Laffer Award at ALEC’s 2024 Summit
Indiana’s Governor-Elect lauded for transformative fiscal leadership and a commitment to real-world results, joining an elite roster of economic trailblazers.
Washington, DC – At the 2024 American Legislative Exchange Council’s (ALEC) States & Nation Policy Summit, Indiana Governor-Elect Mike Braun was honored with the prestigious Laffer Award for Economic Excellence. Named after the iconic economist Dr. Arthur Laffer, the award highlights outstanding achievements in economic leadership and innovation. Braun, known for his principled approach to fiscal policy and economic reform, joins a distinguished roster of past recipients, including Senator Rick Scott, Governor Ron DeSantis, and healthcare advocate Cynthia Fisher.
ALEC CEO Lisa Nelson opened the ceremony by recounting the origins of the Laffer Curve, a principle that revolutionized modern economic thought. Dr. Arthur Laffer, through a simple napkin sketch in 1974, demonstrated the delicate balance between taxation rates and government revenue. Nelson emphasized how this concept has inspired economic policies worldwide.
She highlighted Braun’s mastery of those same economic principles, adding, “This year, we recognize a man who put those skills to work to build a thriving business, craft impactful bills in the U.S. Senate, and now lead Indiana as its 52nd governor.”
Dr. Laffer, unable to attend in person due to international commitments, delivered a heartfelt virtual address. He commended Braun’s track record of economic stewardship and underscored the challenges ahead for Indiana. Despite strong leadership from his predecessors, Laffer noted that Indiana’s economic growth has not kept pace with national trends. However, he expressed confidence in Braun’s ability to drive transformative change.
“Even great governance hasn’t been able to staunch this trend. But we’re all rooting for you, Mike.”
Braun, in his acceptance speech, reflected on the values that have guided his career—fiscal responsibility, innovation, and a commitment to results.
“The proudest thing I’ve done in business and or politics was convening that renewal meeting in 2008,” Braun recounted. “We cut costs by over 60% and haven’t had a premium increase now in 16 years.”
Drawing on his experience in business and public service, he pledged to bring a practical, results-oriented mindset to his new role. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed optimism about Indiana’s potential to thrive under sound economic policies.
“We’re going to have so much damn much fun in Indiana,” said Braun. “It’s farm system politicians that were never interested in staying in the legislature. Where you live within your means, have balanced budget amendments, and do real things for real people.”
The Laffer Award serves not only as a testament to Braun’s past achievements but also as a challenge to rise to the occasion in his new role. With a legacy of transformative leadership behind him, Braun stands ready to shape Indiana’s economic future and cement his place among the state’s most impactful governors.