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States Leading the Way on National Issues: Jonathan Williams on The Tim Jones & Chris Arps Show

Many states are leading the way in addressing national challenges while promoting economic growth.

ALEC Executive Vice President of Policy & Chief Economist Jonathan Williams joined The Tim Jones & Chris Arps Show to discuss the ALEC Annual Meeting in Denver and how states are leading the way in addressing national challenges while promoting economic growth.

States Leading the Way

Contrary to the dysfunction at the federal level, Williams pointed out that many state legislators and governors have successfully implemented effective policy solutions. This was on display at the ALEC Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado, which drew significant attendance, including over 400 state legislators (nearly 1,500 total attendees).

Highlights from the ALEC Annual Meeting

The ALEC Annual Meeting showcased a range of discussions on pivotal issues such as economic policy, education freedom, and regulatory reform. Williams highlighted notable speakers, including Dr. Art Laffer and Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

It was an impressive discussion on things like housing costs and property taxes and overregulation. In addition, a lot of people forget this but Governor Polis, as a Democrat, actually called for the complete elimination of Colorado’s personal income tax. That’s a conservative type of policy, and you have a Democrat sitting governor up on the stage with us, calling for the elimination of that income tax.

The Success of States Like Utah

Williams also praised states like Utah for their consistent economic success. For 17 consecutive years, Utah has topped the Rich States, Poor States ranking, a report co-authored by Williams. This success contrasts sharply with states at the bottom of the list, which often emulate federal-level mismanagement by prioritizing government control over economic freedom.

It was just incredible validation of the Utah model as one of the fastest growing states in America. One of the states that gets it right when it comes to economic development and being pro-commerce and pro-taxpayer. And you know, I don’t think it’s a coincidence that they’ve been number one for all 17 editions of Rich States, Poor States for economic outlook.

Global Engagement

The influence of ALEC extends beyond U.S. borders, as evidenced by engagement with international representatives and support for global allies like Taiwan and Israel.

We have an international relations community at ALEC that develops model policy and resolutions to deal with things like free trade and supporting our allies abroad. That’s an area that probably doesn’t get enough attention when state legislators are looking at some of these issues, not just domestically, but globally. Trade is such an important piece of state economic growth and foreign direct investment in the states.

Listen to the full interview.