U.S. Travel Joins Congressman André Carson for “Travel Works” Power Hour in Indianapolis

The U.S. Travel Association joined Congressman André Carson, Visit Indy and the Indiana Destination Development Corporation, along with legislative and local business leaders for a “Travel Works for America” Power Hour at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum on March 11. The discussion focused on opportunities to support the travel industry now and in the future, and national and local priorities for the industry.

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"We appreciate the opportunity to join Congressman Carson and a diverse group of local leaders to highlight travel’s essential role in the current and future success of Indianapolis and the state of Indiana," said Andrew Newhart, Senior Director of Government Relations at U.S. Travel. "We’re grateful for the partnerships of Rep. Carson and local travel and business leaders to continue to grow the impact of travel in their district and across the U.S."

"This Power Hour was an invaluable chance for local stakeholders to convene and chart a path forward for travel and tourism in our community—supporting jobs, small businesses, and local economies," said Congressman André Carson. "Indianapolis is a world class destination that welcomes visitors from around the globe for major events and conventions. As Ranking Member of the House Aviation Subcommittee, I am focused on improving the travel experience for everyone by strengthening aviation infrastructure to ensuring flying is safe, accessible, and comfortable for all travelers.”

“Rep. Carson is a great champion of Indianapolis, of Indiana, and of our country’s travel and tourism industry,” said Leonard Hoops, President & CEO of Visit Indy. “He has a tremendous understanding of local, state, and national issues related to our economic ecosystem and our pain points—both through Visit Indy’s ongoing communication with him and his staff and through our partners at the U.S. Travel Association. We’re very appreciative of leaders like Rep. Carson, as well as those at the city and state, for their continual helping in growing Central Indiana’s $6.4 billion travel and tourism industry.”

In 2023, $14.6 billion in travel spending supported nearly 100,000 jobs in Indiana. In 2024, the travel industry in total produced $2.9 trillion in economic output and supported 15 million U.S. workers. Travel is a top driver of growth, stability and prosperity that touches every corner of America.

The Power Hour agenda included critical topics to the travel industry, such as: the economic impact of the travel industry; visa integrity fee and changes to the ESTA application; Brand USA; air travel modernization; the upcoming decade of major events, and more local and national issues.

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