Development of a Public Policy Agenda

We are recognized for our ability to help our clients develop effective public policy positions. We accomplish this through our comprehensive understanding of the political environment, the issues of concern to our clients and a process for developing priorities and policy positions. Our team will work closely with you to assist in identifying issues and developing your appropriate policy positions. We offer you a keen understanding of the political process and the current political environment. Our background and skills will be valuable to you as you begin developing an overall strategy and public policy positions.

Issue Development and Management

Once your public policy agenda has been prioritized and finalized, your organization must immediately begin to design and implement a strategy to achieve your goals. Working together, we will identify a priority list of stakeholders impacted by your agenda. We will begin policy briefings with those individuals early in the process to determine the level of support that exists for your public policy proposals. Following those discussions we can identify any changes your agenda or message may need. We will also work to manage the progression of your initiatives throughout the public policy process.

Effective government affairs programs can anticipate emerging issues and prepare a strategy before it is too late. Our relationships will provide you with information on potential issues of concern early in the process, allowing you to more effectively manage issues and develop comprehensive strategies. Of course, it is impossible to anticipate every issue that may develop in the public policy arena. However, our team’s presence in a variety of settings will provide information so you are aware of emerging issues at the earliest possible time.

Grassroots Management and Coalition Development

We can work together to analyze your current coalition relationships and help you build upon your existing grassroots network. We bring to your effort relationships with numerous business groups, trade associations and other professionals, which will allow you to expand your presence and improve your chances of winning crucial battles. Effective communication of your public policy agenda by individuals outside of your organization will strengthen your arguments and solidify your base of support. Our team will assist you in maximizing a strong third party approach to your public policy efforts.

Strong coalition partners will help prevent "divide and conquer" strategies often employed in fights on controversial and complex issues. Our experience in managing, developing and participating in numerous business community efforts will help you identify potential coalitions for your participation as well as coalitions you should be managing.

Increased Visibility and Coordinated Communication

The members of our team are prepared to invest the time and energy necessary to increase our understanding of the myriad of issues you face. This will allow you to be confident in our ability to effectively represent you. Our ability to expand your coverage will also free up your time, allowing you to manage issues and address other concerns. The time we spend on your behalf, will allow us to develop stronger relationships for you with key policy makers.

Your organization will benefit from a team of proven professionals who are effective in communicating the priorities of their clients. By maintaining a broad group of individuals with the ability to deliver your message, your vision will be more effectively communicated with key policy makers, regulators and advisors. We will also help to put in place a system for tracking messages that have been delivered to policy makers along with the responses to those messages.

Enhanced Political Campaign Efforts

Elections can be critical in determining the success of any public policy agenda. Cook Hill Girard Associates’ campaign, fundraising and PAC experience can assist in your efforts to increase the participation of your organization in both political donations and local elections. We can assist you in identifying key races, candidates who support your positions and elections where issues of concern to you are being raised.

Multi-State and Federal Activities

When needed, we are able to provide lobbying services in multiple states either through direct representation by members of our organization or through our professional arrangements in various states. Our ability to identify lobbyists streamlines your process and allows you to focus more attention on winning battles and less on identifying foot soldiers. If an issue arises, you can be assured the most effective lobbyists available will represent your concerns.

In addition to our state relationships, we have strong ties to key congressional members and leadership. We are also able to help develop relationships with individuals early in their political careers, which will solidify support for you in the future.

The bottom line for an effective public policy program is having a comprehensive understanding of the political environment and information on the issues of concern to your business. Our team will provide crucial information on legislative activity, which will allow you to determine what type of involvement is needed. We have the ability to go beyond bill introductions and provide you with valuable insight on legislative and political activity.