State Government Affairs is Essential for Advocacy
The days focusing primarily on federal lobbying for effective government relations are gone. After years of partisan gridlock and shrinking numbers of bills passed by Congress, state lawmakers are stepping into the policymaking void, making state-level advocacy and lobbying crucial for any successful government relations strategy.
The New Government Relations Playing Field:
Gridlocked Congress: Steadily increasing gridlock in Washington, D.C. leaves many pressing issues unresolved at the national level. States are increasingly taking the lead on economic development, energy, healthcare, labor, taxes, tech, and transportation issues.
All 50 states are in play: State policies that directly impact your business environment are being debated in state capitals across the country - from Alaska to Florida and everywhere in between. Monitoring this increased activity and being prepared to jump in anywhere at any time is essential for success.
The Rapid Domino Effect: Wins (and losses) in key states can pave the way for similar results across the country that have lasting impacts on the business community. Successful state campaigns can spread quickly, but the same is true for damaging or harmful proposals. And in the absence of your engagement in the states, be assured that other interests impacting your business will step in for their benefit.
State Government Affairs Program Essentials:
There are some essential components of a comprehensive and successful state government affairs program that can’t be ignored:
Tailored Advocacy: A one-size-fits-all approach to government relations won’t work in the states. Tailored strategies designed to resonate with local policymakers in their unique state capital and political ecosystem are key.
Localized Expertise and Influence: In addition to state-specific strategies, utilizing localized allies and lobbyists with a thorough understanding of each state's political environment and legislative processes is equally important. Building on and cultivating relationships with key legislators, regulators, and stakeholders in the states will provide a seat at the table that you otherwise would not attain if engaging strictly as an outside party.
Proactive Issue Monitoring: Intelligence is the most critical resource for a winning state government affairs program. Monitoring for relevant information, legislation, and behind-the-scenes developments through well-placed assets in state capitals is critical for keeping you informed and prepared for rapid response engagement.
Management and Accountability: Sustained coordination, management, and reporting of these state government affairs assets is essential for the maximum effectiveness and impact of your localized advocacy and monitoring across the country.
Nexus Public Affairs: Your State Government Affairs Partner
We offer a customized government affairs strategy and support solutions that seamlessly integrate with your broader government relations strategy. Our team will:
Develop a Customized Plan: We work with you to craft a customized program that advances your government relations goals.
Navigate the Complexities: We provide expert guidance through the intricacies of each state's political and policymaking landscape.
Organize Your Advocates: We help develop, identify, and manage influential and localized advocates, lobbyists, and issue coalitions consisting of diverse stakeholders to ensure that your aligned interests are heard by state policymakers.
Embrace the Power of State Government Affairs
Companies can’t ignore the significance of state-level advocacy. By partnering with Nexus Public Affairs, you gain a dedicated team ready to help companies and trade associations navigate the evolving policymaking landscape by developing and supporting proactive a state government affairs program to keep you ahead of the curve and prepared to counter the opposition.
