Tom Hatten Takes the Helm as Chairman of Goldwater Institute's Board of Directors
Tom Hatten Takes Charge at Goldwater Institute
On March 20, 2025, the Goldwater Institute announced the appointment of Tom Hatten as its new Chairman of the Board of Directors, marking a significant step in the organization’s ongoing mission to advocate for limited government and individual freedom. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and community involvement, Hatten brings a fresh perspective to the Institute, which has long been a national leader in promoting economic freedom and protecting personal liberties across the United States.
Background of Tom Hatten
Tom Hatten is an accomplished entrepreneur from Arizona, best known for founding Mountainside Fitness Centers in 1991. Under his leadership, the company evolved into one of the largest fitness franchises in the country, showcasing Hatten’s innovative approach to business. His experience in the fitness industry is not just limited to business success; it also reflects a deep commitment to community enrichment, which he tends to bring to his new role at the Goldwater Institute.
In a statement regarding his appointment, Hatten emphasized the importance of the Goldwater Institute in defending constitutional rights and freedoms. He said, “The Goldwater Institute has become a national leader in preserving our constitutional freedoms and rights. This incredible team has tirelessly worked to defend our liberty at every turn... My goal is simple: to ensure the Goldwater Institute continues to be the nation’s leader in defending the American Dream.”
Goals and Vision
Hatten's vision for the Goldwater Institute includes continuing its efforts to enact laws and promote policies that safeguard individual liberties. He aims to leverage his business acumen to foster initiatives that empower citizens and hold government accountable. As he takes on this leadership role, Hatten is eager to expand the Institute's influence and impact in various states across the nation.
Victor Riches, the President and CEO of the Goldwater Institute, expressed excitement about Hatten joining the board, stating, “Goldwater has become a national powerhouse in advancing the principles of liberty, economic freedom, and property rights. I’m thrilled that Tom will help us continue delivering victories for individual freedom across the nation.”
Achievements of the Goldwater Institute
The Goldwater Institute has a rich history of enacting policies aimed at increasing freedom and reducing government overreach. Notably, the organization has implemented numerous initiatives that resonate with Americans across various sectors. It has championed efforts such as expanding school choices, protecting healthcare freedoms through the Right to Try initiative, and advocating for employment rights across states.
In 2024 alone, the Institute enacted dozens of laws, focusing on crucial aspects of individual liberty. They successfully passed measures that rolled back DEI mandates in education, enhanced healthcare access for patients, and defended the right to earn a living without excessive governmental restrictions. As of 2025, over 100 bills have already been introduced in 29 states, indicating the Institute's proactive approach to legislation.
Goldwater’s commitment is reflected in its pioneering initiatives like Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) which empower parents in selecting the most suitable education for their children, diverging from traditional public school systems. They played a role in implementing the Right to Try law, enabling terminally ill patients access to promising treatments without governmental hurdles, a law that has been adopted in 41 states thus far.
Legal Advocacy and Support
Beyond legislative efforts, the Goldwater Institute is equally dedicated to defending its established laws against governmental challenges. With over 1,000 attorneys within its American Freedom Network, the Institute provides robust legal support to uphold the constitutional rights of citizens. This network actively engages in hundreds of legal cases across state and federal courts, ensuring that every American's rights are vigilantly protected.
Hatten’s term as Chairman began on March 13, 2025, and it brings forth a promising future for both him and the Goldwater Institute. His leadership is anticipated to further mobilize support for the organization's principles, ultimately reinforcing the call for freedom and dignity for all citizens across the nation.
In summary, as Tom Hatten steps into this pivotal role, he embodies a blend of entrepreneurial acumen and civic-mindedness that aligns perfectly with the Goldwater Institute's foundational goals of advocating for personal liberties and economic freedom. With Hatten at the helm, the Goldwater Institute is set to continue its critical work in championing the rights and dreams of individuals across America.