New Leadership Elected for the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in 2026
On December 11, 2025, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) wrapped up its 2025 Fall National Meeting by electing a new set of officers who will lead the organization into 2026. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the governance of the NAIC as the new officers prepare to take on their responsibilities starting January 1, 2026.
The election saw Scott A. White, the Virginia Insurance Commissioner, taking on the role of President. White has been a key figure in insurance regulation since he was appointed as Commissioner of the Virginia Bureau of Insurance in January 2018. Known for his dedication to consumer protection and regulatory excellence, he is expected to bring significant experience to his new position.
In tandem with White, Elizabeth Kelleher Dwyer was elected as the President-Elect. Dwyer has been recognized for her leadership as the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation since May 2023, and her previous role as Superintendent of Insurance from January 2016. Her insights into state insurance markets will be vital as she steps into the presidency following White.
The organization also welcomed new Vice President Jon Pike, currently serving as the Commissioner of the Utah Insurance Department since January 2021. Pike's involvement at the state level and commitment to innovation in insurance regulatory processes will serve him well in this leadership role.
Lastly, the position of Secretary-Treasurer will be filled by Michael Wise, the Director of the South Carolina Department of Insurance, who has only recently been appointed in May 2023. His financial acumen will be crucial in overseeing the funds and operations of the NAIC.
In addition to the national officers, the NAIC also holds elections for zone officers representing its four geographical areas. These elections are particularly important as they ensure that every region’s voice is heard in national decision-making.
The Northeast Zone will be chaired by Commissioner Justin Zimmerman from New Jersey, taking notable responsibilities alongside Vice Chair D.J. Bettencourt from New Hampshire and Secretary Marie Grant from Maryland. The Southeast Zone will see Mike Chaney from Mississippi as Chair, with John King from Georgia as Vice Chair and Michael Yaworsky from Florida as Secretary. Similarly, the Midwest Zone will be led by Eric Dunning from Nebraska, while the Western Zone has Ricardo Lara from California at its helm.
The NAIC plays a pivotal role in the regulatory landscape of insurance in the United States. Established by state regulators, it helps them coordinate on critical issues, establishes regulatory standards, and provides vital data and analysis to support effective regulation. This central role in the insurance framework will be further reinforced under the guidance of the newly elected officers.
As we look forward to 2026, the transition in leadership within the NAIC represents not just a change of guard but a commitment to excellence in consumer protection and regulatory practices in the insurance industry. The newly elected team will face the challenges ahead with a renewed focus on advancing the interests of consumers and maintaining high standards of regulatory oversight across the nation.
The election saw Scott A. White, the Virginia Insurance Commissioner, taking on the role of President. White has been a key figure in insurance regulation since he was appointed as Commissioner of the Virginia Bureau of Insurance in January 2018. Known for his dedication to consumer protection and regulatory excellence, he is expected to bring significant experience to his new position.
In tandem with White, Elizabeth Kelleher Dwyer was elected as the President-Elect. Dwyer has been recognized for her leadership as the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation since May 2023, and her previous role as Superintendent of Insurance from January 2016. Her insights into state insurance markets will be vital as she steps into the presidency following White.
The organization also welcomed new Vice President Jon Pike, currently serving as the Commissioner of the Utah Insurance Department since January 2021. Pike's involvement at the state level and commitment to innovation in insurance regulatory processes will serve him well in this leadership role.
Lastly, the position of Secretary-Treasurer will be filled by Michael Wise, the Director of the South Carolina Department of Insurance, who has only recently been appointed in May 2023. His financial acumen will be crucial in overseeing the funds and operations of the NAIC.
In addition to the national officers, the NAIC also holds elections for zone officers representing its four geographical areas. These elections are particularly important as they ensure that every region’s voice is heard in national decision-making.
The Northeast Zone will be chaired by Commissioner Justin Zimmerman from New Jersey, taking notable responsibilities alongside Vice Chair D.J. Bettencourt from New Hampshire and Secretary Marie Grant from Maryland. The Southeast Zone will see Mike Chaney from Mississippi as Chair, with John King from Georgia as Vice Chair and Michael Yaworsky from Florida as Secretary. Similarly, the Midwest Zone will be led by Eric Dunning from Nebraska, while the Western Zone has Ricardo Lara from California at its helm.
The NAIC plays a pivotal role in the regulatory landscape of insurance in the United States. Established by state regulators, it helps them coordinate on critical issues, establishes regulatory standards, and provides vital data and analysis to support effective regulation. This central role in the insurance framework will be further reinforced under the guidance of the newly elected officers.
As we look forward to 2026, the transition in leadership within the NAIC represents not just a change of guard but a commitment to excellence in consumer protection and regulatory practices in the insurance industry. The newly elected team will face the challenges ahead with a renewed focus on advancing the interests of consumers and maintaining high standards of regulatory oversight across the nation.
Topics General Business）
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