Social Conservative Leaders Celebrate the Victories
Last week, Shawn Hyland and I had the privilege of representing the New Jersey Family Policy Center at SoConCon (Social Conservative Conference), the national gathering of state Family Policy Councils and strong family conservative organizations in Washington, D.C. It was an energizing and deeply encouraging time, and I want to share a few highlights with you.
One of the most meaningful moments for me was the chance to update leaders from across the country on what is happening right here in New Jersey during our Family Policy Council conference that precedes SoConCon each year. I shared our Next Gen Advocacy initiative, as we prepare for students from local churches, Christian schools, and homeschool communities to step into real civic environments. I could see genuine excitement across the room. Your support is helping shape a national conversation about raising up young Christian advocates.
Throughout the conference, we heard from several national leaders who are shaping policy and strengthening the pro‑family movement. Speaker Mike Johnson offered a powerful reminder of the importance of convictional leadership in turbulent times. Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council and Craig DeRoche from Family Policy Alliance challenged us to stay faithful, strategic, and hopeful as we work to protect families and religious freedom.
One of the most insightful conversations came from Vince Haley, who serves as the Director of the White House Domestic Policy Council in President Donald Trump’s second administration. He shared how the administration is coordinating domestic policy across critical areas such as health care, education, energy, housing, and social policy. Hearing directly from someone shaping national priorities helped us better understand the landscape in which our state‑level advocacy operates.
Another significant moment came during a session with Russ Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget at the White House. He outlined major policy shifts that could strengthen families nationwide. His message reinforced the importance of having strong state-level partners ready to engage as these national conversations unfold.
We also heard from Senator Jim Banks and former Senator Rick Santorum, who shared details about the new TRUMP Accounts for newborn children which they described as an innovative policy concept designed to give families a stronger financial foundation from the very beginning of a child’s life.
Shawn and I left Washington encouraged, sharpened, and more convinced than ever that New Jersey has a vital role to play in the national pro‑family movement.
Our state is facing a wave of harmful policies that weaken families, undermine parental rights, and push our state further away from the values we share. While other states are advancing strong, pro‑family laws that protect children, support parents, and strengthen communities, we are working tirelessly to bring those same solutions to New Jersey.
A gift today equips us to stand firm, stay present in Trenton, and champion the proven policies that are already improving lives across the country.
