A message from the CSG Executive Director/CEO
The States
America’s Engines of Democracy
As our nation approaches its semiquincentennial (that’s a big word for 250 years), a new chapter is being written — not just in the halls of Congress, but in every state capitol across this country. In 2024, state leaders demonstrated their commitment to the core values that bind us together — civility, democracy and public service — while tackling some of the most pressing issues facing our communities. From strengthening our democratic process to pioneering the use of emerging technologies, our leaders continue to show that the true engines of democracy are the states.
This past year, state leaders faced complex challenges head-on and worked to enact laws that leverage innovation and foster growth. In a time when the democratic process is under increased scrutiny, many state governments took bold steps to further secure elections, expand voter access and promote civic engagement. By strengthening trust in our institutions and ensuring that all voices are heard, states are playing a pivotal role in upholding the democratic ideals that have sustained us for nearly 250 years.
Meanwhile, the rapid evolution of technology has presented both opportunities and challenges for state governments. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, quantum computing and cybersecurity have the potential to revolutionize government performance and accountability, but they also raise important questions about privacy, ethics and security. As they have for more than two centuries, state leaders have risen to the occasion, developing frameworks that expand opportunity while effectively identifying and managing risks.
To support these efforts, CSG brought together state leaders through policy academies, regional meetings and leadership training programs — facilitating idea-sharing, relationship-building and skill development to create meaningful impact in their states.
As we reflect on 2024, it is clear the states are making progress on some of the most important issues of our time. It is clear that our nation is stronger because the states, our laboratories of democracy, are delivering results. As we look to 2025, new challenges and opportunities are already on the horizon, and state leaders will again be at the forefront of navigating this evolving landscape.
Whether it’s finding ways to increase the affordability and accessibility of housing, reducing the cost of and increasing access to health care — particularly mental health — ensuring public schools are successfully preparing students for the jobs of tomorrow and lives of purpose, addressing the impacts of a changing climate, reducing violence and recidivism, and building the workforce needed to grow prosperity, the states are where the action is at.
At CSG, we are ready to support these efforts by connecting state leaders with the resources, expertise and opportunities they need to meet the moment. As always, our focus remains on helping state officials deliver for the citizens of their state. Trust in government is restored when citizens believe their elected representatives are responsive to their concerns, act on their priorities and work together to find solutions.
While change is inevitable and new issues will demand our attention in the coming months, some things never change: For over 90 years, CSG has sustained its commitment to advance the common good by connecting, informing, inspiring and empowering state officials from all three branches of government. While the issues facing the states have grown in complexity and the pace of change has accelerated rapidly, public servants dedicated to governing their state recognize the inherent value of civility, the rule of law, and the democratic traditions and institutions first given life at the birth of this nation nearly 250 years ago.
INFORMING
1,500 Policy Officials
Over the past year, more than 1,500 public sector officials engaged with CSG through policy briefings, webinars and specialized events, building networks and strengthening their capacity to address state issues.
EMPOWERING
1,700 GRANTEES
Since 2006, the CSG Justice Center has provided training and technical assistance nationwide for more than 600 Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program grantees and more than 1,100 Second Chance Act grantees.
For over 90 years, CSG has sustained its commitment to advance the common good by connecting, informing, inspiring and empowering state officials from all three branches of government.
Thirty centuries ago, the ancient Greeks first established a system of government that derived its power from the consent of the governed. Today, we are the beneficiaries of that powerful idea. But as was true for the ancient Greeks, the durability and sustainability of a democracy is never assured. Every generation of citizens inherits the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. Our democracy will endure and thrive only if we accept ownership of our shared future.
While there are many forces that seek to undermine democracy and divide us, I remain optimistic about the future because my career at CSG has blessed me with endless opportunities to see firsthand the ingenious, generous, self-sacrificing, principled, passionate, caring and resilient leaders who serve in state government.
These people of purpose give me hope that the best days for our nation are yet to be. So, let us face that future together, building a nation for the future generations we will not know, but whose freedom will be assured because of the choices we make today. All of us at CSG are honored to share your public service journey. We look forward to helping you achieve great things for your state and our nation.
CONNECTING
1,200 STATE OFFICIALS
Across regional meetings, CSG convened more than 1,200 state officials, fostering interstate collaboration and policy exchange.
INSPIRING
200 STATE LEADERS
Through leadership training programs, CSG equipped more than 200 state leaders with critical skills and insights to lead effectively.