Strengthening American Principles and Empowering States: Lee Schalk on NewstalkSTL

Amid challenging times and recent tragedies following the death of Charlie Kirk, debates over free speech, education reform, and policy innovation continue across the states. In times like these, it can be both solemn and galvanizing for lawmakers.

“I think this is going to change a generation of young people to really carry that torch forward,” said ALEC Senior Vice President of Policy Lee Schalk on a recent segment of NewsTalkSTL’s Tim Jones and Chris Arps Show.

The conversation began with reflections honoring Charlie Kirk and his legacy through Turning Point USA. Schalk expressed his admiration for Kirk, highlighting his championing of free speech and freedom of expression.

“Going into the lion’s den the way he did, he was willing to engage anyone and just always standing up for truth, standing up for freedom,” Schalk remarked. “It has just been amazing to watch the outpouring of support and to see how many millions of people he impacted.”

The impact has been felt across organizations who strive to represent the needs of the American people. The conversation then touched on the history of ALEC, its mission of preserving the values of limited government, free markets, and federalism.

“These are the principles that make our country great,” Schalk emphasized. “And we’ve got to continue to be bold with these ideas.”

Shifting to policy, Schalk highlighted the significance of the One Big Beautiful Bill, as it has shaped ALEC’s engagement with state lawmakers through this sweeping policy package that includes school choice, Medicaid reforms, and tax provisions.

“I think this is going to pour rocket fuel on the economy,” he said, noting that more than 600 state legislators signed a letter in support.

Jones followed up with Schalk further about the results of the Trump administration’s efforts to partner with state leaders and policymakers to find solutions.

“We are seeing federalism at play in a way that is unprecedented, and in a way that our Founders intended,” Schalk commented. “To see that play out in real time through President Trump and his administration the way… it is really something special to watch.”

The conversation then turned to highlights from ALEC’s annual meeting, held this year in Indianapolis, which produced a series of new policy proposals. Schalk noted the resolution commemorating the 250th anniversary of America and its importance for civics education.

“One of my favorites [resolutions] was the one on commemorating the 250th anniversary of America… this is a model that legislators can introduce as a resolution to really celebrate the history of our country,” he said.

The meeting also emphasized election integrity.

“We had a renewed focus this meeting on election issues, and we had a really nice slate of new model policies,” Schalk added.

For Schalk, the work is about more than policy—it’s about preserving the principles he says define America.

“We’ve got to continue to be bold,” he emphasized. “That’s what makes our country great.”