Who's Who
The 2026 Who’s Who in Political Consulting & Communications
Top campaign professionals to know in New York.
City & State presents the 2026 Who's Who in Political Consulting & Communications. Shannon Decelle Photography; Andrew Morales; Chris Felix
Last year featured one of the most stunning New York City mayoral elections in decades. The year before marked the remarkable return of Donald Trump to the White House. And this year is set to feature a high-stakes battle for control of Congress, with Democrats hoping to continue the trend of the party in power losing ground in the midterms – while Republicans are pulling out the stops to maintain their majorities in both chambers.
Behind all the bold-faced names and the high-profile policy fights are countless consultants helping wage effective campaigns and craft impactful messaging.
City & State’s Who’s Who in Political Consulting & Communications puts a spotlight on the PR and political comms pros who are on the front lines of the biggest campaigns in New York and beyond. This new list, which was written and researched in partnership with journalist Aaron Short, replaces our Political Consultants Power 100 and our Political PR Power 75, as many individuals qualified for both lists. We’re pleased to introduce the inaugural Who’s Who in Political Consulting & Communications.
Azzopardi, Rich
Rich Azzopardi helped former Gov. Andrew Cuomo shape his campaign message in the New York City mayoral primary and then recalibrate in the general election to appeal to a broader electorate of independent and Republican voters, even though the comeback bid fell short. The Albany-based strategist founded Bulldog Strategies four years ago after serving as a top spokesperson in Cuomo’s administration for nearly a decade. Azzopardi dismissed rumors of a Cuomo congressional run, but the trusted aide will likely help him plot his next move. Azzopardi has also worked with clients in business, energy, law, labor and the nonprofit sphere.
Bagga, Amit Singh
After falling just short in a crowded New York City Council race in Queens in 2021, Amit Singh Bagga worked in the Hochul administration and then launched Public Progress Solutions. Bagga organized a forum last May for New York City Democratic mayoral candidates on issues important to immigrants and the LGBTQ+ community. Public Progress’ July 2025 poll of the mayoral race, conducted in four languages, showed Zohran Mamdani with a substantial lead over other candidates as other surveys badly misread the electorate. Bagga served on Mamdani’s transition committee.
Editor’s note: Amit Singh Bagga is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Bayona, José
José Bayona was one of the highest-ranking Latinos in the Adams administration before leaving city government in 2024 to return to his consulting companies, Grassroots Strategies and Grassroots Media. The former El Diario editor and Daily News reporter had joined City Hall to launch the Mayor’s Office of Ethnic and Community Media. Now Bayona is embarking on a new venture, Mosaic Connect, that uses artificial intelligence to match advertisers with local media businesses. Among his recent clients are the Citizens for Affordable Rates coalition, Fordham University and the Caribbean Times.
Editor’s note: José Bayona is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Benjamin, Liz
Liz Benjamin saw it all in Albany during her two-decade career as a political blogger and cable news star before joining Marathon Strategies in 2019. The former “Capital Tonight” host has a thriving second career as a political strategist and one of the state’s top cannabis consultants who has worked to provide communications support with the New York Medical Cannabis Industry Association. This year, Benjamin served as a spokesperson for Fix the City, a pro-Cuomo super PAC that raised $35 million from donors like Mike Bloomberg and William Lauder while spending $30 million on the New York City mayoral race.
Berlin, Valerie
Valerie Berlin has transformed her consulting firm BerlinRosen, which once focused primarily on New York City elections, into a strategic communications behemoth with offices in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and Europe. The firm’s co-founder helped acquire consulting, data analytics and PR companies before leading a rebranding to Orchestra and consolidating a symphony of services under one roof on the 26th floor of 195 Broadway. Her firm still advises candidates in local races, with recent ones including Brad Lander’s mayoral bid, Brad Hoylman-Sigal’s Manhattan borough president campaign and New York City Council Member Erik Bottcher’s reelection campaign.
Birchmeier, Ryan
Ryan Birchmeier, the former communications director in the Adams administration, got his start in high-stakes municipal governance as a spokesperson for Philadelphia’s 311 system before relocating in 2016 and working for the New York City Economic Development Corp. He launched William Street Strategies in April after serving in the New York City Office of Technology and Innovation and for about a year as a communications director for then-Mayor Eric Adams. Now Birchmeier is poised to help developers, tech companies, economic development groups and nonprofits navigate the Zohran Mamdani era.
Blackmon, Larry Scott
Larry Scott Blackmon left FreshDirect, where he served as a vice president of public affairs, to focus on his own public affairs firm, The Blackmon Organization, with a mission of elevating overlooked voices and supporting innovative programs. Blackmon has partnered with Destination Tomorrow, the Bronx’s LGBTQ+ center, and supported the construction and launch of the Hip Hop Museum. He recently worked with the organization 100 Black Men to donate money for state Attorney General Letitia James’ legal fund. He continues to work with FreshDirect, BHALO and Hazel Health.
Editor’s note: Larry Scott Blackmon is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Bonilla, Joe
Since establishing Relentless Awareness in 2012, Joe Bonilla has expanded his Albany-based public relations firm to a full-service agency providing rapid response public relations, strategic campaign and regulatory advice to clients. Bonilla has worked on bringing ride-hailing companies to upstate New York and Long Island, advancing the state’s craft brewing industry supporting the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities in New York’s legislative agenda and helping theater owners recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. Firm co-founder Rich Fazio was a key consultant on Albany Mayor Dorcey Applyrs’ campaign. The firm also has locations in Las Vegas and Greenville, South Carolina.
Brabender, John
Republicans in Washington, D.C., and beyond have relied on John Brabender’s adept political communications skills to advance their agenda for decades. Since founding BrabenderCox in 1982, the political consultant has steered the campaigns of a number of prominent Republicans. His firm continues to support New York members of Congress, creating digital ads for Rep. Mike Lawler and providing media consulting to Rep. Nicole Malliotakis. He also worked on Indiana’s GOP-led redistricting push and continues to pen a Wall Street Journal column, in which he recently addressed the late activist Charlie Kirk’s political legacy.
Braun, Michael
After building up Kasirer’s business development and community relations efforts over the past six years, Michael Braun launched a new consulting practice within the city’s top government relations firm in September to provide a wide range of advisory services to its clients. Braun previously helped lead Kasirer’s lobbying strategy to develop the New York Climate Exchange campus on Governors Island, which is expected to open in 2029. He has also advised STV and Shop Architects and serves on the boards of the 5Boro Institute and the New York Building Congress.
Cass, Alyssa
One of the sharpest strategic operatives in New York Democratic circles, Alyssa Cass joined Slingshot Strategies as a partner after working on Andrew Yang’s 2021 New York City mayoral run. Cass has had her hands in multiple campaigns since then, including Rep. Pat Ryan’s congressional victory, Scott Stringer’s New York City mayoral primary bid and the city’s pro-housing ballot measures. She’s also shared her keen observations about the electorate with The Intercept, Gothamist and on “Pod Save America.” Cass is currently advising Alex Bores’ congressional campaign and serves as chief strategist for Blueprint, the Democratic polling and messaging initiative.
Castell, Eduardo
Eduardo Castell is the engine powering the MirRam Group’s quarter-century run atop New York Democratic politics. The former deputy New York City comptroller helps run the affiliated Hamilton Campaign Network, plotting historic victories for Letitia James, Eric Gonzalez and Adriano Espaillat and led field campaigns for five successful congressional races in 2024, flipping four seats from red to blue. This past year, Castell helped New York City Council Members Lynn Schulman and Elsie Encarnacion win their races and ran independent expenditure campaigns for six City Council seats. He has begun defending Rep. Hakeem Jeffries’ and Espaillat’s congressional seats.
Chae, Justin
Justin Chae started his first political canvassing firm, Meridian Strategies, in 2019 when he was barely out of Stuyvesant High School and immediately began helping candidates Melissa Mark-Viverito and Rory Lancman get on the ballot. This year, Chae rebranded his canvassing operation and launched Supernova to provide digital strategy services for all kinds of campaigns. He recently used his videography and marketing skills to help Civil Court Judge Matt Santamauro and Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney, as well as Madison Square Garden’s super PAC. He’s now advising Cameron Kasky’s congressional campaign.
Coffey, Chris
Since becoming CEO of Tusk Strategies in 2021, Chris Coffey has embraced tough political challenges. Coffey helped coordinate Metropolitan Park’s successful casino bid in Queens and secured an increase for the state’s film tax credit. Under his leadership, Coffey expanded Tusk’s team of strategists while serving corporate clients such as LVMH, Archer Aviation and Instacart. Coffey was also an informal adviser to New York City mayoral contender Andrew Cuomo and registered Restore Sanity NYC, an outside group that opposed “extreme agendas.”
Comella, Maria
Maria Comella is one of the few consultants in the region who equally understands what makes Republicans and Democrats tick. The political adviser worked for former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign, putting her at the center of contentious political fights. Since launching Comella & Co. in 2022, Comella helped steer Metropolitan Park through New York’s bruising casino selection process and worked with the 9/11 Museum & Memorial, PSEG and Seton Hall University.
Corsillo, Tom
This year, Tom Corsillo celebrated his 20th anniversary at Marino, which he has helped develop into one of New York City’s premier strategic communications outfits. Corsillo has carved out a lane as a housing expert, helping clients such as the Community Preservation Corp. and Local Initiatives Support Corp. navigate federal regulations and the new City of Yes zoning framework while also producing a housing policy podcast. Corsillo is currently working with the Pharmacists Society of the State of New York to pass the Patient Access to Pharmacy Act in 2026.
Cosme, Roy
Roy Cosme created Arcos Communications nearly 30 years ago to help clients build trust among New York’s fast-growing Latino and Afro-Latino populations. The PR executive has focused on providing health care communications, grassroots campaigns and social marketing for such clients as Amida Care, the Latino Commission on AIDS and Pfizer, specifically working on producing national summits for the Pfizer Multicultural Health Equity Collective. Cosme is currently working with transgender-led organizations and health programs on a new bilingual campaign to celebrate transgender leaders and push back against attacks.
Crockett, Stephanie
Letting go can be hard, but Eric Mower has entrusted his longtime colleague Stephanie Crockett to run the Syracuse-based independent marketing and PR agency that he bought out back in 1980. Crockett, who joined Mower in 2004, became president and chief operating officer in 2021. After Mower sold his company to its employees the following year, Crockett succeeded Mower as CEO in 2023. She was honored as a 2025 Wisdom Keeper by Focus Greater Syracuse for her leadership, values and vision.
Davis, Jonathan
The secret is out. Few opposition researchers are as sought-after, or as feared, as Jonathan Davis. The Brooklyn-based operative’s Northside Research + Consulting website is sparse, but his work is well-known in political circles for consistently shaping the meta-narrative of New York’s election cycles. Carlina Rivera, Alessandra Biaggi, Corey Johnson, Scott Stringer, Ritchie Torres, Letitia James, Andrew Cuomo and Adriano Espaillat have all hired him at one point. Davis helped Yusef Salaam and Susan Zhuang win their New York City Council races in 2023.
DeGrasse, Alexander
Since joining Elise Stefanik’s campaign team during her first run for Congress in 2014, Alexander DeGrasse has helped propel the upstate New York politician into the top ranks of House Republican leadership. DeGrasse went on to launch North Country Strategies and has worked on several campaigns at the federal and state levels. DeGrasse had teamed up with other top GOP operatives to run Stefanik’s gubernatorial campaign last year before she abruptly pulled the plug and announced she would not be seeking reelection to the House. His marriage to NBC News White House reporter Katherine Doyle was covered by The New York Times in July.
DiTomasso, Kim
Over the past two decades, Kim DiTomasso has made Ditto Consulting Westchester’s essential political communications and event planning agency. DiTomasso has helped now-Rep. George Latimer hold multiple fundraisers that powered his Westchester County executive campaigns followed by his high-profile congressional victory. She also assisted in Reps. Grace Meng and Paul Tonko’s campaigns as well as Susan Cacace’s Westchester County district attorney bid. DiTomasso also serves on Derek Jeter’s Turn 2 Foundation’s Resource Council to help raise money for the group.
Eisdorfer, Joel
Joel Eisdorfer made history as the first Hasidic Jew to serve as a senior adviser to the mayor of New York City, a post he held in the Adams administration until he left City Hall in spring 2024. Eisdorfer, who also chaired the city’s first Jewish Advisory Council, played an important role in the 2021 election by turning out the vote in his Satmar Hasidic community in Borough Park. Amid rising antisemitism and sharp divisions over the Israel-Hamas war, Eisdorfer remains a key political player in Brooklyn and beyond.
Epstein, Andrew
One of the breakout stars of the 2025 election cycle, Andrew Epstein helped Zohran Mamdani shape his mayoral message that resonated with New Yorkers and secured a historic victory in November. As the campaign’s chief spokesperson and later its creative director, Epstein created social media videos that distilled Mamdani’s policies addressing the city’s affordability crisis, attracting millions of views. He may get a job at City Hall, but multiple candidates backed by the Democratic Socialists of America would benefit from his expertise. He previously was the campaign manager for Assembly Member Emily Gallagher.
Fahey, Paul
Over the past three decades, Paul Fahey has been a driving force behind one of the Capital Region’s premier boutique consulting firms. Fahey has specialized in working with city and state health agencies, such as the state Department of Health and the state Office of Drug User Health, as well as nonprofit organizations, including the New York State Association for Rural Health, the Community Health Care Association of New York State and the Early Care & Learning Council. Fahey currently serves as treasurer on the Troy Savings Bank Music Hall board and is a licensed pilot.
Fife, Richard
Richard Fife is no stranger to high-stakes elections. The political strategist ran H. Carl McCall’s gubernatorial campaign before serving as a senior adviser to Barack Obama’s New York primary effort and managed then-Gov. David Paterson’s brief 2010 campaign for reelection. Fife has since advised a mix of Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations while helping Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg, state Sen. Robert Jackson and Rep. Dan Goldman defeat Democratic rivals in hard-fought primaries before cruising to victory.
Forand, Doug
Doug Forand established Red Horse Strategies nearly 18 years ago to give progressive Democrats and labor unions a leg up in the nation’s most expensive media market. Red Horse’s strategists helped Eric Adams win the closest New York City mayoral race in years (they declined to get involved in his reelection) and have advised campaigns for U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, Rep. Grace Meng and congressional candidate John Avlon. Forand’s firm also worked with an AFSCME campaign promoting former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams for mayor.
Galvin, Jennifer
After leading fundraising for Daniel Squadron, Eric Schneiderman and Senate Majority PAC, Jennifer Galvin created JLG Strategy in 2019 to bring her development and strategic talents to a wider audience. Galvin has since helped Rep. Dan Goldman win a competitive congressional seat in 2022 while also supporting the campaigns of state Attorney General Letitia James and Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg. Her firm has also worked with PAC for America’s Future, Democracy Action Now PAC and Vote Mama, the research and advocacy group seeking to increase the political participation of moms.
Gerstein, Anat
For more than 15 years, Anat Gerstein has been helping nonprofit groups build public support for their missions and shape public policy through their advocacy. She recently worked with a charter school CEO to convince state legislators to pass New York’s school cellphone ban, secured new investments for Planned Parenthood’s Albany clinic and got increased funding for the New Pride Agenda and Amida Care to support the state’s LBGTQ+ communities. Gerstein also advises AARP New York, the Associated Medical Schools of New York and Yaffed.
Giannoulis, Harry
Harry Giannoulis grew The Parkside Group from a small consulting practice to one with more than 60 employees that has served more than 750 clients. His firm played a pivotal role in state Senate Democrats wresting control of the upper chamber in 2018 and maintaining their majority ever since. Giannoulis also steered Tom Suozzi’s congressional comeback after the politician’s long-shot bid to challenge Gov. Kathy Hochul in 2022. His specialty may well be the eye-catching print designs of campaign mailers voters receive before each election.
Green, Tucker
Since founding The Threshold Group in 2009, Tucker Green established his firm as the go-to fundraiser and strategist for Democrats on Long Island and beyond. Green has helped Kathleen Rice, Laura Gillen and Tim Kennedy win congressional seats and has also worked on the campaigns of Tom DiNapoli, Laura Curran and Jumaane Williams. Last year, Green became chair of the board of Phoenix House New York, a nonprofit network of drug and alcohol recovery facilities and residential treatment programs.
Grenell, Alexis
Alexis Grenell had an enviable career writing op-eds and advancing progressive issues before she co-founded Pythia Public Affairs nearly a decade ago. Her firm has worked on campaigns to pass the Adult Survivors Act, support ranked choice voting and advocate for a moratorium on cryptomining. Last year, Grenell contributed incisive columns in national magazines dismantling Andrew Cuomo’s campaign narrative of competence. Her business partner, Evan Thies, played a critical role in former New York City Mayor Eric Adams’ first campaign.
Griffin, John
Since joining DKC 12 years ago, John Griffin helped expand the firm’s public affairs practice to focus on developing strategic campaigns for real estate, education, tech and nonprofit clients. Griffin’s team has led TikTok’s policy communications as the Trump administration sought to undo a ban on the social media platform and helped Airbnb navigate increasingly strict regulations in New York. He has also represented RXR Chair and CEO Scott Rechler, helped NYU Langone publicize patient outcomes and supported the TD Five Boro Bike Tour.
Guma, Mark
Veteran political consultant Mark Guma’s first job out of college was serving as a spokesperson for Nita Lowey’s congressional campaign. He has since helped an eclectic mix of Democrats throughout the state, last year handling campaign mailings and producing TV ads for Democratic state Sen. Zellnor Myrie’s New York City mayoral bid. Guma has also advised Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg and the New York State Democratic Assembly Campaign Committee.
Hagelgans, Andrea
Andrea Hagelgans knows plenty about protecting one’s reputation. The de Blasio administration alum served as communications director and senior adviser at City Hall before returning to the private sector at Edelman. Since joining Avoq in 2024, Hagelgans has expanded the firm’s New York footprint by hiring more communications experts, led a campaign highlighting the strength of nonprofits for the National Council of Nonprofits, and supported the Schuyler Center’s campaign to end child poverty that contributed to the expansion of New York’s child tax credit and universal school meals.
Hayes, Anthony
Like many others, Anthony Hayes embarked on a soul-searching mission after Hillary Rodham Clinton’s shocking loss in the 2016 presidential election. The Clinton campaign aide went on to found The Hayes Initiative, which has grown rapidly and taken on major clients, including Google, Airbnb, Bloomberg Philanthropies, The Related Companies, Montefiore Health System, Blade and New York City FC. Hayes managed the first community pitch for the 26 by 26 initiative to celebrate the FIFA World Cup and led communications for Etihad Park, the forthcoming soccer stadium at Willets Point.
Henderson-Rivers, Tyquana
Tyquana Henderson-Rivers has become one of the city’s most sought-after strategists and has an impressive track record to back it up. Gov. Kathy Hochul, Adrienne Adams, Greg Meeks and Melinda Katz have all counted on Henderson’s expertise to pull them over the finish line. This year, she led Vanessa Gibson and Donovan Richards’ borough president reelection campaigns, engineered Ty Hankerson’s New York City Council win and organized faith leaders to support Mark Levine’s successful city comptroller bid. She has also represented the Health Education Project, which advocated for more Medicaid funding in the state budget.
Editor’s note: Tyquana Henderson-Rivers is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Hiltzik, Matthew
Matthew Hiltzik knows how to get in front of a crisis. The formidable fixer, who launched his firm in 2008, guides Hollywood celebrities like Brad Pitt and Johnny Depp, athletes like Shohei Ohtani, and business and philanthropic leaders like Eric and Wendy Schmidt – and keeps other clients far from the spotlight. Many of Hiltzik’s former employees, including Hope Hicks, Melissa Nathan and Rachel Adler, have left to form their own firms and media entities. Hiltzik recently helped MrBeast and Mark Rober’s clean water initiative, which raised $40 million to help more than 2 million people.
Hinton, Tamara
Tamara Hinton joined Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies two years ago after stints as a broadcast journalist for NBC29 in Virginia, as a congressional aide shaping agricultural and financial policy as well as in public affairs. As head of Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies’ national strategic communications practice, Hinton runs media campaigns and helps a range of clients hone their messages to the public. She recently designed a grassroots initiative for the Association of Community Employment Programs for the Homeless, which helped secure more than $8 million in funding for its containerization and workforce development programs.
Hoffman, Eden Mia
Eden Mia Hoffman joined a growing bench of public affairs professionals at Bamberger & Vlasto in 2024 after serving as head of global communications for the New Jersey-based financial technology company Cross River. Hoffman has brought a mix of talents to the firm, designing intricate, targeted message campaigns for specific audiences and helping clients navigate reputational crises. She represents a portfolio of private, public and nonprofit clients with an emphasis on tech and artificial intelligence startups. The firm is led by Cuomo administration veterans Rich Bamberger and Josh Vlasto, who founded it after leaving Kivvit in 2021.
Honan, Bradley
Bradley Honan’s firm conducted headline-grabbing polls in the New York City mayoral race for Tusk Strategies and other clients, detecting Zohran Mamdani’s surge last February – even as he and other pollsters failed to fully capture Mamdani’s support. His firm, which also supported Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson’s successful reelection bid and Brad Hoylman-Sigal’s Manhattan borough president campaign, remains a go-to strategic research firm for candidates and corporate clients. Honan is also a co-president of the New York Metro chapter of the American Association of Political Consultants.
Hsia, Vanessa
Vanessa Hsia has worked with some of the most beloved characters in the world (Muppets) and some of the least (members of Congress). Before joining The TASC Group in 2023, Hsia led PR strategy for Sesame Workshop, then ran digital advertising and messaging trainings in 2020 for hundreds of politicians and strategists with Priorities USA, a leading Democratic super PAC. At TASC, Hsia put together the media campaign for the Women Transforming Global Security initiative, the launch event for which was attended by Hillary Rodham Clinton this past fall. Hsia has also worked with Common Cause and Destination Tomorrow.
Jenkins, Patrick B.
Patrick B. Jenkins really hit the jackpot. The veteran political consultant has been a longtime adviser to Resorts World New York City dating back to when it secured a racino license in 2010. Most recently, he helped the gambling company prepare its $5.5 billion proposal to expand its facility into a 5.6-million-square-foot resort and work to ensure the bid had community support before the state ultimately approved it. On the campaign front, Jenkins has been working for the New York Workers’ Compensation Alliance, a statewide coalition of attorneys and injured workers, and continues to advise the PAC run by Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie.
Katz, Morris
Besides the candidate himself, Morris Katz was arguably the MVP of the Zohran Mamdani campaign. As lead media strategist, the admaker designed TV videos that garnered attention and helped catapult a candidate with 1% of the vote in early polls to the city’s biggest political upset this century. Katz, who has also advised U.S. Sen. John Fetterman and other out-of-state candidates, created Brad Lander’s sunny congressional campaign launch ad and is currently working with Queens Assembly Member Claire Valdez on her newly launched congressional bid.
Kauffmann, Peter
After stints leading then-Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s communications office and advising two of his gubernatorial campaigns, Peter Kauffmann turned heel and led a campaign to stop the former governor from becoming mayor. The Bluejacket Strategies founder formed an independent expenditure committee and produced research showing Cuomo’s vulnerabilities, tested messaging and produced ads highlighting his record of mismanagement and harassment. Kauffmann has also advised Lt. Gov. Antonio Delgado, who is currently running for governor, along with VoteVets and the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters.
King, Charlie
Charlie King has been one of the pillars in the New York political world for more than three decades. The well-connected Mercury partner has advised the Rev. Al Sharpton, worked in Bill Clinton’s administration and ran for lieutenant governor on the Democratic ticket with Andrew Cuomo in 2002. King, who also had a stint leading the state Democratic Party, was Cuomo’s first major hire for his New York City mayoral campaign in early 2025 before the former governor officially announced his candidacy. Others from Mercury helped shape Cuomo’s messaging and strategic decisions.
Kirtzman, Andrew
Andrew Kirtzman, the veteran communications consultant, is back to running his own firm as the leader of the recently launched KSX Communications. Before that, Kirtzman, who first made his mark in New York’s political world as the host of NY1’s “Inside City Hall,” had served as managing director at Actum. He also penned the biography “Giuliani: The Rise and Tragic Fall of America’s Mayor,” and ran Kirtzman Strategies. Additionally, Kirtzman had stints at Global Strategy Group and as a senior adviser to the New York City schools chancellor.
Klein, Brendan
Brendan Klein founded North Shore Strategies when he was just 23 years old, building his firm from a two-person field operation to a consultancy that has hired more than 4,000 campaign staff. North Shore recently worked with Sam Sutton during his state Senate special election, helped Ken Jenkins and Lakisha Collins-Bellamy win their Westchester offices and ran mail programs contributing to Ty Hankerson and Kamillah Hanks’ New York City Council victories in November. The firm also provided field operations for the Cuomo campaign and counts New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin as a client.
Kwatra, Neal
Neal Kwatra’s strategic insights are so in demand, he represented two competing gambling companies that both won their casino bids in December. The Metropolitan Public Strategies founder, who once served as the Hotel and Gaming Trades Council’s political director, has been a key strategist for progressive candidates and causes for a dozen years. Kwatra worked on the state’s landmark congestion pricing law and also helped found and advised Phone Free New York, the advocacy group that successfully pushed through the country’s first bell-to-bell school smartphone ban.
Laidley, Jason
Jason Laidley was no stranger to the rough-and-tumble world of New York politics before forming his own consulting firm. He started his career as an aide to then-New York City Comptroller Bill Thompson. He went on to serve as chief of staff to Bronx Democratic Party boss and state Sen. Jamaal Bailey and work on multiple campaigns for Bailey and state Attorney General Letitia James. In addition to advising the Bronx Democratic Party and Gov. Kathy Hochul’s 2022 campaign, Laidley recently helped New York City Council Member Julie Menin secure the council speakership.
Lapeyrolerie, Olivia
Olivia Lapeyrolerie’s tour of duty as a press aide on Hillary Rodham Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign helped shape her into a battle-tested consultant. Lapeyrolerie served in then-New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio’s press shop before stints at SKDK and NYU’s McSilver Institute. Two years ago, she joined Monica Klein’s Seneca Strategies, where she helped advance “good cause” eviction and the state’s Equal Rights Amendment. She was also press secretary for state Sen. Zellnor Myrie’s New York City mayoral campaign and is currently working with New Yorkers United for Child Care on a campaign for universal 3-K and pre-K statewide.
Lence, George
When George Lence formed Nicholas & Lence with Cristyne Nicholas in 2007, he drew from his experiences leading New York’s tourism agency to help many Westchester-based clients navigate state rules and regulations. Lence represented MGM Resorts’ Empire City Casino, which planned a $1.7 billion expansion of its Yonkers resort facility but ultimately withdrew its bid for a full casino license in October. He has also worked with Rye Playland, New Rochelle and Mamaroneck, and he’s an active member of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce and Business Council of Westchester.
Lenchner, Adin
Inspired by President Barack Obama, Adin Lenchner got his start in politics on the candidate’s 2012 reelection campaign and then worked as a grassroots organizer before officially launching Carroll Street Campaigns in 2022. Lenchner has designed national advocacy and issue campaigns, provided in-depth data analysis and managed digital organizing and voter mobilization efforts for progressive groups such as Swing Left, Courier Newsroom and NextGen America. He shared his insights about Zohran Mamdani during the New York City mayoral race with Al Jazeera, Newsweek and The Mirror.
Mark-Viverito, Melissa
Melissa Mark-Viverito hasn’t backed away from tough political fights since serving as New York City Council speaker while Bill de Blasio was mayor. After a stint at the Puerto Rican Cultural Center, the former legislative leader joined MirRam’s Hamilton Campaign Network in 2023 and has since led Latino voting engagement efforts and helped Democratic candidates in multiple states win higher office. Mark-Viverito has also advanced progressive policies affecting Latino communities, such as arguing to keep U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents off Rikers Island and to close the lethal jail complex.
Martin, Tara L.
For more than a quarter century, Tara L. Martin has produced public affairs campaigns and cultural events for a myriad of brands, candidates and causes. After working for the New York State Nurses Association, Mercury and MSG Entertainment, she founded her own firm in 2021. Since then, Martin has supported Anbaric’s offshore wind infrastructure, helped Budega NYC and Etain Health secure marijuana licenses, developed a media strategy for Demand Justice and helped secure grants for the Children’s Health Fund and the Hip Hop Alliance. She recently led a political training for the Black Voters of Long Island.
Editor’s note: Tara L. Martin is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Mayers, Vaughn
Vaughn Mayers’ passion for serving his community and criminal justice reform inspired him to pursue a career in public service. The Brooklyn native has served as state Sen. Kevin Parker’s chief of staff and as a campaign consultant and adviser to Rep. Yvette Clarke, state Sen. Leroy Comrie, New York City mayoral candidate Andrew Yang, Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez and Queens Borough President Donovan Richards. Mayers recently completed his law degree and opened Fireleaf, a licensed cannabis dispensary in Brooklyn. In 2025, he helped New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams win reelection.
McGraw, Denise Murphy
Denise Murphy McGraw is a multitalented consultant who has handled field operations, fundraising and messaging strategies for an array of Democratic candidates in the Capital Region. The longtime Hill, Gosdeck, McGraw & Nemeth partner founded Common Good Strategies in 2024. Last year, McGraw served as campaign manager for Dorcey Applyrs, who became Albany’s first Black mayor. She also helped Rensselaer Democrats win several races in Troy and managed Tiffani Silverman’s competitive challenge against Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin. McGraw serves as national co-chair of Catholics Vote Common Good.
McLaughlin, John
One of President Donald Trump’s pollsters, John McLaughlin has been providing public opinion research to conservative politicians at home and abroad. McLaughlin was a rare voice of optimism that Trump would surge ahead of then-Vice President Kamala Harris when she was leading in August 2024. In fall 2025, he predicted Zohran Mamdani would win handily and that polls showing a closer-than-expected New York City mayoral race were inaccurate. Now he’s warning that Republicans could lose control of the House of Representatives next year, noting that the majority of voters wanted Congress to extend Obamacare subsidies.
Meara, Tommy
Tommy Meara joined Moxie Strategies in late 2024 to help establish the boutique public affairs firm’s presence in New York a few months after Maggie Moran launched it. An expert at labor advocacy and crisis communications, Meara spent more than a decade at Kivvit before the firm merged with Subject Matter in 2023. He previously led communications for a statewide effort against the state’s 2017 constitutional convention and now works with the New York League of Conservation Voters, the New York State Laborers’ Organizing Fund and Constellation Energy Corp.
Morey, Mike
Mike Morey has propelled politicians to higher office and trained a generation of media professionals in more than a dozen years at SKDK. The Chuck Schumer alum has helped expand the Democratic consulting firm’s footprint in multiple cities and attract talent while managing crises and offering strategic advice to public officials, CEOs and academic leaders. Morey was named president in June to lead the firm’s growth strategy after several acquisitions. Among his current clients are the Ford Foundation, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Rep. Josh Riley. He also helped guide Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan to victory last year.
Moskowitz, Ian
Ian Moskowitz joined Hilltop Public Solutions in 2021 after running multiple state operations for the Biden 2020 campaign. The veteran campaign strategist had advised campaigns across 17 states, and served as Biden’s New Hampshire campaign director, managing a team of 60 people. Last year, Hilltop joined up with Meta to run the tech behemoth’s super PAC in support of artificial intelligence. In 2024, Moskowitz teamed up with Bluejacket Strategies’ Peter Kauffmann on a campaign against former Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s New York City mayoral bid.
Mosley, Julie
Julie Mosley co-founded the Albany-based government affairs firm J Strategies nearly 15 years ago to help clients navigate the intricacies of state government regulations and the legislative process. The former Chuck Schumer staffer’s firm has represented an impressive list of Fortune 500 companies, including Ford, Google, Tesla, McDonald’s, Walgreens and Pfizer while also ensuring state clients like the New York Housing Conference, Orthodox Union and The Arc New York can accomplish their policy goals in the state capital.
Nicholas, Cristyne
Cristyne Nicholas knows how crucial the tourism and hospitality industries are to New York City’s economy. Before co-founding her public affairs firm, she helped the city recover from the 9/11 attacks as the CEO of NYC & Company. Now she leads Empire State Development’s Tourism Advisory Council and serves as the chair of the Broadway Association, which successfully fought back against a casino proposal in Times Square. Nicholas was chosen to be a member of the New York State 250th Commemoration Commission to help plan celebrations for the anniversary of the nation’s independence.
Nieves, Michael
Michael Nieves isn’t just the longtime leader of the Hispanic Information and Telecommunications Network, the broadcasting station that has expanded its reach to more than 35 million households, he’s also a veteran political consultant with a wealth of experience in politics and policymaking in New York. Nieves recently launched a new political consulting and government relations firm called The Expeditionem Group, from the Latin term for “campaign.” In 2024, Nieves received the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating his leadership career and volunteer work.
Noerdlinger, Rachel
Rachel Noerdlinger left Mercury for Actum in 2022, becoming the global strategy firm’s first Black partner and bringing along her mission of amplifying Black women’s voices in politics. The longtime aide to the Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network organized messaging for civil rights groups marching on Washington, D.C., in 2023 and served as a spokesperson and strategist for Win With Black Women, which mobilized voters in support of Kamala Harris. Actum advised Genting and Hard Rock International, which both won licenses to operate casinos in New York City.
Noh, Eugene
When Eric Adams needed to find a savvy manager to lead his reelection campaign after several of his previous campaign aides declined to return, he called Eugene Noh. The field operative helped elect many of New York City’s Asian American politicians, including Assembly Member Ron Kim, state Sen. John Liu and his own spouse, Council Member Julie Won. Noh said he joined the mayor’s team because he wanted to help an underdog in the race, and Adams raised $1.5 million before suspending his campaign. Noh took over Legion Outreach Consulting last fall when Justin Chae departed.
Oliva, Michael
For Michael Oliva, court is always in session. The campaign strategist came aboard Sykes Global Communications in 2017 after nearly two decades helping judicial candidates and long-shot politicians ascend to higher office. His winning streak continued after contributing to Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez’s monumental upset victory in 2018 and getting Harriet Thompson onto the Surrogate Court in Brooklyn (she stepped down in 2023). Oliva has since helped Rosemarie Montalbano win her surrogate judge race in Brooklyn and advised then-City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams and state Sen. Cordell Cleare.
Oliva, Ronnie
Ronnie Oliva’s public affairs work truly has a global reach. The Sykes Global Communications owner (she married her business partner, Michael Oliva, in 2017) has run campaigns for an eclectic mix of candidates, including the late Charlie Rangel, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Gale Brewer. Oliva has also advised several unions and nonprofit groups, such as the Transport Workers Union, 1199SEIU, and One Girl and One Life to Live on how to tell their stories in the media in a compelling way.
O’Reilly, William F. B.
No, not that Bill O’Reilly. The November Team’s William F. B. O’Reilly has been through plenty of battles as New York’s preeminent Republican operative. O’Reilly, who has worked on two gubernatorial campaigns and has counted Rudy Giuliani and Mike Bloomberg among his clients, has dedicated his career to building a deep Republican bench in reliably blue terrain. He was a spokesperson for Rep. Mike Lawler in his 2022 breakout campaign and isn’t afraid to share his pointed analysis on “Capital Tonight” or in his New York Post columns.
Editor’s note: William F. B. O’Reilly is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Ortiz, Jason
Opening a casino in New York City seemed like a moonshot, but Jason Ortiz helped Mets owner Steve Cohen secure a much-coveted license to create his $8 billion gambling complex, Metropolitan Park, at Willets Point in Queens. The Moonshot Strategies co-founder, who helped raise funds for a pro-Eric Adams super PAC in 2021, has lobbied for Cohen and the Mets on a variety of state and city matters. He also consulted with Bally’s, which won a bid for its $4 billion proposal in the Bronx.
Peavy, Ed
Ed Peavy established Mission Control a quarter century ago with a goal of giving Democrats the data and direct mail resources they need to compete in tough races nationwide. Peavy prepared Hillary Rodham Clinton’s 2016 direct mail program and has advised the campaigns of Gov. Kathy Hochul and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. His two biggest wins in New York recently were helping Democrats Josh Riley and John Mannion flip two upstate congressional seats from red to blue. Peavy’s firm also counted New York City mayoral candidate Scott Stringer as a client in 2025.
Politi, Leanne
Leanne Politi knows how to frame a compelling narrative. The upstate public affairs expert served as a producer for Spectrum News shows in Syracuse and Albany for more than eight years before joining Hinman Straub and then moving over to The Martin Group in 2022. Now, Politi prepares executives for media interviews and works with clients to engage with their audiences in better ways. She currently works with LeadingAge New York, the New York State Society of Physician Associates, the New York Public Transit Association and the Double H Ranch.
Pollock, Jefrey
The 2024 election cycle was a nadir for Democrats, but Jefrey Pollock is optimistic that the party is poised to rebound. Global Strategy Group, which Pollock co-founded over three decades ago, helped Reps. Pat Ryan, Ritchie Torres and Paul Tonko get reelected, advised Mark Levine on his successful New York City comptroller bid, and polled for Mikie Sherrill and Abigail Spanberger, who won key gubernatorial races in other states last year. Now, Pollock is pivoting to defend four incumbent Democratic governors as they seek reelection, including Gov. Kathy Hochul. He also advises U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, who chairs the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee this cycle.
Previte, David
When Republican candidates need someone to set up PACs and guide them through the state’s complicated election procedures, they turn to David Previte. He served as chief counsel to the state Senate majority when it was controlled by Republicans before joining Hinman Straub in 2019. Previte previously served on the state Public Campaign Finance Reform Commission. His firm has advised Republican candidates, including Jack Martins, Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick and Steven Rhoads.
Rantzaklis, Evan
Evan Rantzaklis had been an indispensable part of Democrats’ efforts to grow their majority in the state Senate after many years out of power. Before joining Brown & Weinraub in 2021, Rantzaklis coordinated campaigns that helped the party take control of the upper chamber in 2018 and then secure a supermajority in 2020. At Brown & Weinraub, Rantzaklis set up an independent expenditure committee that supported Albany Mayor Dorcey Applyrs’ primary victory in 2025. Now, he’s leading a new super PAC backing incumbent Democratic state legislators facing primary challenges.
Richardson, André
André Richardson is no longer Hakeem Jeffries’ secret weapon. The Democratic operative has built a political operation in Central Brooklyn that has supported the likes of Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez, state Sen. Zellnor Myrie and New York City Council Member Crystal Hudson. Richardson helped the state Democratic Party retake congressional seats. Richardson, who recently changed his firm name to The Richardson Agency from Paragon Strategies, was ready to counter a primary challenge from New York City Council Member Chi Ossé, but Jeffries’ dominant poll numbers and the lack of a DSA endorsement prompted the young lawmaker not to run.
Rigger, Darren
Throughout his career, Darren Rigger has worked on more than 100 Democratic races and raised millions of dollars for the party’s most prominent candidates. In 2011, Rigger founded Dynamic SRG, which has provided the fundraising muscle behind several of Kathy Hochul’s political campaigns as well as for Reps. Hakeem Jeffries, Joseph Morelle and Greg Meeks, state Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins, Assembly Member David Weprin, New York City Council Member Ty Hankerson and dozens of other state and New York City races. Last year, Rigger was elected to the Peekskill City Council, a chamber in which he had previously served.
Rios, Olivia
Olivia Rios formed her creative firm in 2020 to increase civic engagement and help New York City agencies improve their outreach to the public. In Creative Jugos’ first year of operation, Rios managed campaigns in 24 languages for the city’s effort to boost census turnout. She recently led the messaging, video work and social content for Benefits on Your Block, a citywide initiative bringing resource fairs to local streets that knocked on 25,000 doors and reached 10,000 residents. Her Sunnies Project video won an Anthem Award for its storytelling in 2024.
Rivera, Camille
Camille Rivera was inspired to enter politics growing up in the South Bronx and fighting new waste transfer stations. After stints as political director for two unions and as a New York City deputy commissioner, Rivera joined New Deal Strategies in 2019. She advised the Working Families Party and joined the Zohran Mamdani campaign, helping complete one of the biggest electoral upsets in New York City history. Her firm has also helped elect multiple City Council candidates in recent years. Former firm partner Rebecca Katz left a year ago to help launch Fight Agency.
Rossi, Joe
After serving as a managing director of Park Strategies for more than 13 years, Joe Rossi struck out on his own to offer his field operations and government relations services. Rossi established Modern Advocacy in February, and promptly helped Sharon Owens make history as Syracuse’s first Black mayor. One of the state’s top cannabis lobbyists, Rossi has also urged Gov. Kathy Hochul to overhaul the state’s Office of Cannabis Management and launched Empire State Green Standard Alliance, a consumer advocacy initiative to ensure cannabis product safety and hold state officials accountable.
Rubenstein, Steven
When CEOs need to protect their reputations or handle the press amid a newsmaking event, they call Steven Rubenstein. Since joining his family’s PR practice in 1992, Rubenstein has expanded the firm’s reach to represent more than 400 clients, including “Saturday Night Live,” the New York Yankees and Tishman Speyer. Rubenstein also serves as chair of the Association for a Better New York, a role in which he emceed one of most closely watched events of the election in October when Zohran Mamdani answered questions about his policies with an audience of city business leaders.
Russell, Chris
Chris Russell co-founded Checkmate Strategies in 2018 to give Republicans a leg up in races throughout the tristate area. Russell worked on Jack Ciattarelli’s 2021 and 2025 New Jersey gubernatorial campaigns as well as Bob Stefanowski’s 2022 gubernatorial bid in Connecticut. But one of his greatest successes was helping his old business partner, Mike Lawler, knock Sean Patrick Maloney out of Congress in 2022. Lawler has continued to rely on Russell’s firm for campaign advice as a crowd of Democrats vie for the opportunity to challenge the Republican House member.
Sachs, Shawn
The sun never sets on the Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis empire. Since joining the PR firm in 2001, Shawn Sachs led its rapid growth, amassing over 250 employees across offices in California, Texas and Georgia before adding new leadership and opening an office in London last year. Sachs has continued representing corporations, nonprofits and labor unions, while helping organizations like World Central Kitchen, the NAACP and People for the American Way shape their narratives in the media. He also organized a fundraiser for Organización Latino Americana of Eastern Long Island.
Scarlett, Juanita
Juanita Scarlett honed her government affairs skills in high-pressure situations in state government and the private sector. After starting her career as an aide to then-Gov. Mario Cuomo, Scarlett worked in senior public affairs roles in the state Attorney General’s Office, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Empire State Development before lobbying on behalf of clients in the health care, energy, economic development and education sectors for the past 14 years. At Bolton-St. Johns, Scarlett has helped nonprofits secure government funding and advocated for improving Black maternal health outcomes.
Editor’s note: Juanita Scarlett is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Seay, Gabby
Gabby Seay launched her own political consulting firm to put more people from communities of color and labor unions into higher office. The longtime political organizer started her career mobilizing college students on the John Kerry presidential campaign in 2004 and then served as political director of 1199SEIU before launching Seay Strategies in 2017. She has worked with BlackPAC and Grow Our Vote, which mobilized and engaged underrepresented voters, and in 2023 helped launch Battleground New York, which coordinated a coalition of unions to flip Republican-held seats across the state.
Sedlis, Jenny
Jenny Sedlis had an extensive background as an education reform leader before co-founding Moonshot Strategies with Jason Ortiz in 2021. The former StudentsFirstNY executive director has continued to advocate for charter school expansion. She also ran a super PAC supporting Eric Adams’ New York City mayoral election in 2021 and has raised and spent $30 million in independent expenditure campaigns in New York elections over eight years. Sedlis’ firm also lobbied state and local officials to approve a casino license for Mets owner Steve Cohen’s Metropolitan Park in Queens.
Shapiro, Todd
Todd Shapiro is not afraid of taking on controversial clients – because where’s the fun in working with someone boring? The veteran celebrity publicist helped former New York City Mayor Eric Adams launch his reelection bid last year. He downplayed poor polling, fended off speculation that Adams was considering an ambassadorship appointment, denied reports Adams was dropping out, then coordinated Adams’ endorsement of Andrew Cuomo. Yet Shapiro had plenty to celebrate last year, starting with the 30th anniversary of his business and his 60th birthday celebrated at four different venues.
Shepherd, Onika
Onika Shepherd organized health care workers in New York and on Long Island for 1199SEIU for more than two decades – most recently as political director of the influential labor union – before deciding to embrace another challenge. In September, Shepherd joined McBride Consulting & Business Development Group, a government relations and consulting firm where she’s deploying her skills to develop outreach and engagement campaigns. The firm has advised public and private sector clients like Ørsted, Transdev North America and Veolia Water.
Skelly, Michael
Michael Skelly is an in-demand public relations adviser for organized labor, helping get legislation passed and contracts approved. His firm managed a public relations campaign for the NYPD’s Sergeants Benevolent Association to secure a contract with retroactive pay increases and led a digital media campaign to improve staffing levels at the state Supreme Court in Brooklyn. He also helped the Tonawanda Police Club oppose certain labor practices of managers and the town board. Other clients include the New York City Correction Officers’ Benevolent Association and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority Police Benevolent Association.
Skurnik, Jerry
Jerry Skurnik has probably forgotten more about campaign data than you will ever know. The Engage Voters U.S. consultant, who previously ran Prime New York for decades, has provided countless candidates with up-to-the-minute data about the New York electorate. Skurnik correctly predicted more than 2 million people would vote in the New York City mayoral election in November. He also broke down New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s path to victory and theorized that Andrew Cuomo would not pick up many votes from Eric Adams. Skurnik is also a commissioner on the state Gaming Commission, which recently approved licenses for three downstate casino proposals.
Smith, Rasheida
Rasheida Smith has a long track record of success getting candidates elected to Congress and legislatures across a dozen states. The Dunton Consulting executive has worked on campaigns for prominent New York and New Jersey politicians, including U.S. Sen. Cory Booker, former New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy and his successor Mikie Sherrill, former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, state Sens. Leroy Comrie and Jessica Ramos, and Assembly Member Jenifer Rajkumar. Smith has also provided canvassing services for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and assisted with advocacy campaigns and other services for the state Department of Health, Brookdale Hospital and Transport Workers Union Local 100.
Stevens, Tyrone
Tyrone Stevens built up plenty of government experience handling communications for a number of Democratic heavyweights, including Mark Levine, Scott Stringer and Andrew Cuomo, while also making his mark as a trusted campaign consultant. He was communications director on Rep. Adriano Espaillat’s breakthrough campaign in 2016 and also managed Stringer’s 2021 New York City mayoral bid. Following stints at 32BJ SEIU and with Stu Loeser & Co., Stevens has been an independent Democratic consultant since 2024. He’s now advising Erik Bottcher, who recently exited a congressional primary to seek the state Senate seat vacated by now-Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal.
Thies, Evan
Evan Thies once ran for office himself, but has found his calling in helping other Democratic candidates accomplish their dreams. The Pythia Public Affairs co-founder, whose messaging strategies helped Eric Adams become New York City mayor in 2021, declined to officially sign on to a second tour last year. Instead, Thies has focused on helping clients achieve their policy goals – such as the expansion of Hudson Yards and the passage of the City of Yes zoning overhaul in New York City. Recently, he worked with Waymo to obtain permits to test its driverless vehicles on city streets.
Todd-Medina, Lupe
Lupe Todd-Medina isn’t surprised easily after working for a quarter century in New York politics and government. The Brooklyn-based PR strategist helped steer Hakeem Jeffries’ rapid rise, guided Gov. Katy Hochul through a closer-than-expected reelection fight in 2022 and was a spokesperson for former New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams’ late-breaking mayoral bid last year. She has also counted Byron Brown, Ray McGuire and Carmen De La Rosa among her clients over the years. She may be called on to help Hochul again as the governor fends off an aggressive Republican opponent this year.
Editor’s note: Lupe Todd-Medina is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Valenzuela, Sara
After coordinating campaigns and shaping organizational strategies for more than 15 years in and out of government, Sara Valenzuela joined MAD Global Strategy Group in February. She has since lobbied for attorneys with Levy Konigsberg who wanted to amend the Gender Motivated Violence Act to ensure it applies to institutions, and the New York City Council passed such a measure in November. Valenzuela has also represented Somos Community Care, GreenVest and SAVE-US, which aims to ensure autonomous vehicles operate safely across the country. The firm expanded into New York City with the acquisition of Millennial Strategies in 2024.
Wells, Chyresse
Chyresse Wells has a deep appreciation for improving the economic viability of upstate New York. After serving in the press shop for the governor and at Empire State Development, Wells joined Corning Place Communications in 2018. Over the past year, she helped generate media coverage for the Northeast Dairy Producers Association that reached an audience of 4.7 million and won an award from the American Advertising Federation for helping create the website Dairy4Good.com. She also represents National Grid, the Retired Public Employees Association and United University Professions.
Williams, L. Joy
Since Hazel Dukes died in March 2025 at the age of 92, L. Joy Williams has continued her legacy as the new head of the NAACP New York State Conference. Williams, who founded LJW Community Strategies 15 years ago and is the longtime leader of the NAACP’s Brooklyn chapter, has aimed to expand NAACP membership with younger activists, boost its presence statewide and pass meaningful legislation. Williams met with Zohran Mamdani last year, which helped some Black leaders grow more comfortable in supporting him. She also denounced the Trump administration’s mortgage fraud case against state Attorney General Letitia James.
Woloz, Michael
Michael Woloz isn’t afraid of navigating complex regulations and budgetary negotiations to get what his clients need. Last year, the CMW Strategies leader scored an increase in city funding for arts and cultural institutions, helped Friends of the High Line sink a Hudson Yards casino proposal, got New York City to approve permits for Waymo to test its autonomous vehicles, secured a contract for Verra Mobility to expand its red-light cameras and successfully lobbied city officials to approve the Arrow Linen rezoning in Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn. Now that’s a hot streak!
Wood, Julie
Risa Heller was fortunate to nab Julie Wood, the Bloomberg administration alum who helped Gov. Kathy Hochul settle into her role by managing her press shop for her first two years in office. Now, Wood imparts her wisdom to high-profile individuals and companies for Heller, one of the best crisis communications firms in the world. Wood also has extensive experience in the tech sector, having served as a top communications executive for Lyft and Kickstarter, and she serves on the board of the New York Road Runners.
Yang, Trip
Trip Yang is at the forefront of a growing cohort of Asian American-owned consulting firms advancing the careers of candidates of color. Yang has pitched in with digital mail, media and strategic services for the campaigns of New York City Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Assembly Members Catalina Cruz and Grace Lee, New York City Council Member Gale Brewer and Rep. Dan Goldman, among others. He didn’t pick a horse in the 2025 New York City mayoral race, but he’s well known in the political arena and offered trenchant analysis of Zohran Mamdani’s successful campaign for The New York Times, The Guardian, ABC 7 and CBS News New York.
Editor’s note: Trip Yang is a member of City & State’s advisory board.
Correction: An earlier version of this post incorrectly described Marathon Strategies' Liz Benjamin as a lobbyist. The updated text also removed incorrect details stating that Benjamin had helped pass the state’s legalized marijuana program.
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