Senator Fred Thompson, a noted statesman, was elected to the United States Senate in 1994, when he defeated a 6-term Congressman by a large margin of victory. Serving as Chairman of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee, and as a member of the Finance Committee and Select Committee on Intelligence, Senator Thompson focused on lowering taxes, strengthening national security, and cutting wasteful government spending during his time in office. Thompson continued his public service as Chairman of the State Department's International Security Advisory Board. In addition to his impressive political career, he is also well-known for his portrayal of New York District Attorney Arthur Branch on the Emmy Award-winning NBC drama, Law & Order.

In his keynote address, Senator Thompson, a strong supporter of market-based solutions for many of the challenges America faces, including carbon emissions, education and health care, will discuss impending federal regulations surrounding environmental sustainability and their impact on businesses. In addition, he will speak about his transition from the entertainment industry to politics.