On Thursday, ProgressPAC, the political arm of the Business Council of Alabama, announced its endorsement of Senator Jack Williams for Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries and Derek Chen for State Auditor.
According to the group, these endorsement affirm its support for candidates who prioritize sustainable economic growth, reduce barriers for job creators, and champion policies that strengthen Alabama’s workforce and business competitiveness.
State Sen. Jack Williams (R-Wilmer) is a fourth-generation Alabama farmer and small business owner from Mobile County who has spent more than a decade advocating for farmers, small businesses, and rural communities in the Alabama Legislature.
As Vice Chair of the Senate Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry Committee, Williams has cut taxes on agricultural business products, protected property rights, and worked to get government out of the way of agribusiness.
According to BCA, his conservative, pro-industry record has earned him a reputation as a dependable partner for Alabama’s agriculture and business owners.
Gary Smith, Chair of ProgressPAC, emphasized Williams’ long-standing leadership.
“Senator Jack Williams has spent his life fighting for Alabama’s farmers and rural communities. His deep agricultural expertise and business-minded leadership make him the right choice to serve as Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries,” said Smith.
Smith continued, “ProgressPAC is confident he will continue standing up for the industries that feed, fuel, and support our state and make it easier for them to do business and compete across markets.”
With a professional background spanning both law and business, Chen has seen firsthand how excessive regulation, bureaucratic red tape, and government waste can hinder economic growth and innovation.
These experiences have shaped Chen’s commitment to strengthening state government by making it more transparent, accountable, and effective for the people it serves as State Auditor.
Helena Duncan, President and CEO of the Business Council of Alabama, praised Chen’s qualifications.
“Derek Chen’s professional background, coupled with his commitment to accountability and transparency, makes him exceptionally well-suited for the office of State Auditor,” said Duncan. “His dedication to responsible government reflects the values of Alabama’s business community. ProgressPAC is proud to support him.”
According to BCA, ProgressPAC is backing both candidates for their proven commitment to principled leadership, government efficiency, and support for Alabama’s business community.
