20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Steve Baker joined ARA in 1990 and represents several professional groups and corporations. Prior to coming to Aaron Read & Associates, Steve had an executive role with a labor-management consulting firm headquartered in Sacramento. He has been involved in all aspects of association development, including membership recruitment, public relations, coalition building, and representational activities.Steve specializes in working on energy, utility, labor, transportation, regulatory and environmental issues. He also has extensive experience in working on the State Budget. Steve has worked in a variety of candidate campaigns as well as on statewide ballot measures. He is highly respected for both his lobbying skills and his ability to articulate verbally and in writing the concerns of our clients.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office

Arthur B. "Skin" Edge, IV is engaged in Governmental Relations and Consulting. Prior to joining GeorgiaLink, Mr. Edge served in the Georgia State Senate (1986-1996) and was Minority Leader of the Senate from 1992-1996. Mr. Edge served on the Appropriations, Special Judiciary (Chairman), Public Utilities and Health committees in the Senate. He also served on the Legislative Fiscal Affairs Committee and the Code Revisions Committee. Georgia Trend Magazine named Edge as one of "The 100 Most Influential People in Georgia." He was voted "The Top Registered Lobbyist in Georgia in 2018" in a poll of legislators, state officials and lobbyists. He was also named by Business to Business Magazine as one of "The Ten Most Influential People under the Gold Dome." He is a graduate of the University of Georgia (BBA 1977) and the University of Georgia School of Law (J.D. 1980). He was a participant in the Leadership Georgia Class of 1988. Skin and his wife, Bambi, have three children and six grandchildren. They reside in Newnan, Georgia.

20+ years

John S. "Trip" Martin, III is the founder of GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group. GeorgiaLink is a governmental affairs consulting firm which has been recognized by James magazine seventeen years in a row as the top lobbying firm in the state of Georgia. Mr. Martin began his Government Affairs career in 1981 as the Director of State Government Affairs in Georgia for Southern Bell. In 1986, he was promoted to the position of Director of Legislative Affairs for BellSouth in Washington, D.C. where his major responsibilities included the development and implementation of strategies for dealing with Congress on national telecommunications policy issues. He has served as the Vice President of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Southeastern Public Affairs Council and was a participant in the Leadership Georgia Class of 1983. He is the former Vice President of the University of Georgia National Alumni Association. Mr. Martin currently serves on the Board of Directors of The Advocacy Group, an international network of lobbying firms with offices in forty-eight states. Trip is married to Julie Brown, a native of Atlanta and President & CEO of Georgia Foreign-Trade Zone. Trip and Julie split their time between residences in Atlanta and Blue Ridge, Georgia, where he is a licensed realtor with the Blue Ridge office of Premier Mountain & Lake Property, Inc., and owns and operates Big Creek Alpaca Farms. Trip has three grown children and five granddaughters.

15-20 years

City & State Power 100

PJ Lavelle is a partner in the firm and has been with Malady & Wooten for over a decade. PJ prides himself on helping clients navigate the vast and complex world of government by developing and executing strategies which are tailored for each individual client. Mr. Lavelle has a strong record of experience representing a wide range of clients before both state and local government with a focus on economic development, energy, transportation, and utility related issues.

Prior to joining the firm, PJ served as a senior policy advisor to House Democratic Leadership in the Pennsylvania General Assembly. As a key negotiator for House Democrats, he played a lead role in the passage of laws that have changed the face of Pennsylvania, such as Governor Rendell's Energy Independence Strategy and the Rebuilding PA infrastructure investment package. Preceding his years of service to the House, Mr. Lavelle served on the staff of Pittsburgh City Council.

PJ Lavelle is a native Pennsylvanian, born and raised in Lackawanna County. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Pittsburgh and resides in the Harrisburg area with his family.

ANTHONY PETRUCCELLI came to Kearney, Donovan & McGee LLC with extensive experience at the municipal and state levels of government in Massachusetts. First elected to the Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1999 and then the Massachusetts Senate in 2007, Anthony is well-versed in legislative issues and is able to use his unique perspective to successfully advocate for his clients' interests.

0-5 years

U.S. Senate; U.S. House of Representatives; Illinois Department of Transportation

Before joining the firm, Greg Bales worked for U.S. Senate Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin for more than a decade, serving as senior advisor in the Senator's government office as well as his campaign manager for his 2020 reelection. During his time with the Senator, he oversaw special projects throughout Illinois, and worked as a liaison to elected officials, businesses, community organizations, and other constituencies across the state.

Prior to joining Senator Durbin's staff, Greg worked as a policy advisor for the Illinois Department of Transportation. He was a staffer for former Illinois Congresswoman Debbie Halvorson, and he has worked on numerous political campaigns in California, Illinois, and Indiana. Before managing Senator Durbin's recent reelection, Greg took leave to elect Illinois Congressman Sean Casten to his first term in 2018, and served as Illinois state director for Secretary Hillary Clinton's 2016 Presidential campaign.

Greg's relationships span across the state, including the Illinois Congressional delegation, the Illinois General Assembly, City of Chicago, Cook County government, and in numerous municipalities and local units of government. Greg has concentrated on infrastructure funding, economic development, and earmarks. He has worked with Illinois General Assembly leadership on legislative language to ensure millions of dollars in federal funding for election security were allocated to cybersecurity; managed multi-million-dollar campaign budgets; pitched stories and gone on the record with the media; and lobbied for state funding for public transit.

CHRISTOPHER DURYEA serves as Managing Partner of Statewide Public Affairs. Certainly New York has experienced an unprecedented level of political upheaval over the past several years. As a result, partnering with government has become more challenging. In founding Statewide Public Affairs, Mr. Duryea's vision is to manage a dynamic, experienced and trusted team who excels for our client's government affairs needs within the context of today's challenging environment.

With over two decades of experience working in and around New York politics, Mr. Duryea has well-recognized expertise in assisting clients navigate the complexities of New York state and local government. As Managing Partner, Mr. Duryea is responsible for the continued success of Statewide's clients.

Most recently, Mr. Duryea was a Partner at Marsh, Duryea & Associates where he represented numerous clients and developed a particular expertise on corporate, taxation, economic development, telecommunications and energy matters. Mr. Duryea also previously served as Vice President of the Cable Telecommunications Association of New York, charged with overseeing day-to-day operations and leading government affairs efforts. Here he developed a keen understanding of telecommunications policy issues and trade association management skills.

Mr. Duryea first began building his vast understanding of New York politics as Office Manager for the Onondaga County Democratic Committee, where he worked on numerous Central New York political campaigns. Subsequently he became an expert on the inner workings of Albany, serving as Legislative Director for the Chairman of the New York State Assembly Corporations, Authorities & Commissions and Environmental Conservation Committees.

In May 2012, City & State News named Mr. Duryea as one of "Albany's Rising Stars" noting, "Duryea is a key player." Mr. Duryea is a veteran of the U.S. Navy's submarine service and has a Masters in Political Science from the Rockefeller College at SUNY Albany and a BA in Political Science from SUNY Albany.

0-5 years

John brings 24 years of strategic experience in shaping legislative, budgetary, and regulatory policy in the Commonwealth. He most recently served three terms as Pennsylvania State Senator for Senate District 14 in Carbon and Luzerne Counties, where he earned a reputation as a consensus-builder and accomplished notable community and economic development objectives. John was Chairman of the Senate Community and Economic Development Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Aging and Youth Committee and minority Chairman of the Senate Environmental and Energy Resource Committee, a role he held for nearly a decade. Prior to his election to the Senate, he served the 119th District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for 12 years.

Across his senatorial tenure, John managed multiple community and economic development projects in Northeastern Pennsylvania that transformed the region into one of the leading economic development areas in the country. He forged coalitions with labor groups, such as the Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades Council, and business groups, including the Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association and the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce, to advance the Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit, the Pennsylvania EDGE Tax Credit and the Sales and Use Tax Exemption for computer data center development.

John also worked with the Earth Conservancy to reclaim thousands of acres of mine-scarred lands and set the stage for national developers, like NorthPoint Development, who have invested $1 billion to create 8,000 new jobs in the South Valley of Luzerne County.

Throughout his career, he worked with Republicans and Democrats to author laws to support veterans (Sgt. Sherwood Baker Act), protect seniors (Senior Citizens Full Benefits Act), support law enforcement (Officer John Wilding Law), improve our environment (Coal Refuse Energy and Reclamation Tax Credit) and expand educational opportunities (SHINE Afterschool Program).

Affiliations
• The Pennsylvania Environmental Quality Board, Member, 2011-2019
• The Luzerne Foundation, Executive Board Member, 2001-2017
• The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Executive Board Member, 2011-2015
• The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, Executive Board Member, 2009-2010
• Osterhout Free Library, Director of Development, 1995-1998
• The Earth Conservancy, Board of Directors, 2022-Present
• The Pennsylvania Tuition Account Advisory Board, 2022-Present

Recognition
• Pennsylvania Citizens for Better Libraries Elected State Official of the Year
• Children's Service Center Commitment to Children Award
• North Branch Land Trust Community Stewardship Award
• Pennsylvania Health Care Association Legislative Champion
John is the founder of the Yudichak Family Lighthouse Fund of the Luzerne Foundation, a charity that has donated over $250,000 to public libraries, college scholarships, and youth programs.

Credentials
Education
• The Pennsylvania State University, M.A.
• The Pennsylvania State University, B.A.

CHARLENE RIDEOUT provides government relations and lobbying services to clients of Kearney Donovan & McGee, P.C. Formerly, Ms. Rideout served as Intergovernmental Affairs Manager for the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA). In that capacity, she was responsible for implementing legislative and regulatory strategies as well as promoting and advocating MWRA's legislative agenda. Prior to working at MWRA, Ms. Rideout was legislative director for the Massachusetts State Senate Assistant Majority Leader and Senate Chair of the Banks and Banking Committee.

0-5 years

Before joining the GSL team, Elizabeth worked as a registered lobbyist in Harrisburg. She assists the GSL team in communications and public affairs strategy, design and delivery.

Elizabeth attended Penn State University and received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations. Elizabeth was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society.

Elizabeth is an avid golfer and volunteers with LPGA*Girls Golf USA in the Central Pennsylvania area. She is also a member of the Harrisburg Young Professionals.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Patrick Moran comes with over 20 years of lobbying and legislative experience. He served as Special Consultant to Speaker Herb Wesson and Speaker Fabian Nunez where he worked on public safety, retirement and labor issues.Prior to joining the Speakers office, Patrick was chief lobbyist for the California State Firefighters' Association (CSFA) where he was responsible for the governmental affairs of the organization, both legislative and political. Patrick also lobbied for the Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC), local governments, the State Association of County Retirement Systems (SACRS) and the California Treasurers and Tax Collectors Association.As a result of his diverse work experiences, Patrick has worked for Aaron Read & Associates on a variety of issues including, but not limited to; the state budget, labor, retirement, workers compensation, local government and public safety. He has also worked on a variety of candidate campaigns as well as on statewide ballot measures. While not at work, Patrick enjoys spending time with his wife and four kids.

ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement and labor groups, as well as fortune 500 companies, corporations and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office

6-10 years

Director of State Government Affairs, Comcast Cable Communications, Inc., 2007-2010

Vice President & Board of Directors, Mississippi Cable and Telecommunications Association, 2007-2010

President, Mississippi CablePAC, 2009-2010

Board of Directors, Louisiana Cable and Telecommunications Association, Baton Rouge, LA, 2010

Top 40 Under 40, Mississippi Business Journal, 2010

Leadership Mississippi, Class of 2010

Served as State Caucus Manager for the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation (CSF) in Washington D.C., managing 18 states by communicating with state caucus leadership, attending in-state events and assisting with the crafting and passing of legislation.

Served as Government Affairs Assistant for Jeffrey J. Kimbell and Associates in Washington D.C.

Served as a Congressional Intern to U.S. Senator Thad Cochran.

PAUL DONOVAN's practice is focused in the area of government relations, including representation before government bodies at the local, state and federal levels. He has extensive experience representing clients before the Massachusetts General Court, where he has been successful helping clients meet their governmental objectives.

Paul worked for 10 years at the Suffolk County Sheriff's Department, earning a seat on the Sheriff's Department management team. In addition, Paul provided counsel to the Massachusetts Sheriffs' Association on various legislative issues. Paul has been involved in numerous political campaigns, including a 1993 Boston mayoral campaign, in which he was responsible for directing a field operation of more than 2,500 people. Prior to establishing Kearney, Donovan, and McGee, LLC, Mr. Donovan was a member of the government practice group of Choate, Hall & Stewart.

6-10 years

Governor Tate Reeves Inaugural Committee, Co-Chair, 2020

Director of Administration and Policy Advisor, Office of Lt. Governor Tate Reeves, State of Mississippi, 2011-2012

Director of College Savings Mississippi, Office of State Treasurer Tate Reeves, State of Mississippi, 2009-2011

Director of Public Affairs, Office of Governor Haley Barbour, State of Mississippi, 2005

Deputy Press Secretary, Office of Governor Haley Barbour, State of Mississippi, 2004

Barbour for Governor Campaign, 2003

Interim administrator of the Mississippi Charter School Authorizer Board.

Senior advisor to Lt. Governor on major policy issues including: education reform legislation that changed the state's rating system to an A-F scale, administrative consolidation of low- performing school districts, universal screenings and school choice scholarships for dyslexic students, and advocated for the Lt. Governor's charter school position. Managed Lt. Governor's appointments to various boards and commissions.

Oversaw the College Savings Division of the State Treasury and served as the primary media contact for the agency. Managed the state's 529 Records Administrators – MPACT and MACS.

Spokesperson and media contact for Governor's Office during Hurricane Katrina and coordinated numerous press conferences and special events on behalf of the Governor's Office.

Conducted national public relations campaigns on behalf of consumer health clients at an international public relations firm in New York City

Delora R. Sanchez, Esq. joined Cornerstone in October 2015 after leading Johns Hopkins Medical System's government affairs team. Delora spent nearly a decade representing Hopkins' interests before the Maryland General Assembly, Governor's office, and state administrative agencies. She has an extensive background in state legislative and regulatory issues.

As a senior vice president in Cornerstone's Annapolis office, Delora specializes in representing hospitals, managed care organizations (MCOs), pharmaceutical manufactures, medical cannabis companies, and private sector special interests. Over the past 10 years, Delora has used her deep policy expertise and legislative connections to save or create tens of millions of dollars in state funding for clients; shape Maryland's medical liability policy; and steer the top healthcare system in the world through the implementation of the Affordable Care Act and the creation of the Maryland Health Benefits Exchange.

Delora was recognized by the Daily Record in 2017 as a VIP, 40 under 40 and as a Leading Woman in 2013. In 2014 Sanchez was named a Marshall Memorial Fellow -- the flagship leadership development program of the German Marshall Fund of the United States. From 2008 to 2010 she was appointed by the President of Johns Hopkins University to serve on the Johns Hopkins Diversity Leadership Council. During the same time period, she was also appointed by then Governor Martin O'Malley to the Maryland Commission for Environmental Justice and Sustainable Communities.

Delora is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and serves as chair of community engagement on the board of directors for Thread, which engages underperforming high school students facing significant barriers outside of the classroom. As a native of Baltimore and current South Baltimore resident, Delora was proud to accept an appointment by the Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates to the South Baltimore Gateway Partnership Board. The organization is responsible for distributing approximately $8 million in casino revenue for community development projects in the areas immediately impacted by the casino's construction. Previously, she was a board member of the Charles Village Community Benefits District and Vice Chair of the board for Hope Forward, which provides support transitioning for former foster youth.

Delora holds a Juris Doctor degree with a concentration in Health Law from University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law and an undergraduate degree in Healthcare Management from Towson University. She is licensed to practice law in Maryland and the District of Columbia. Delora is a lifelong resident of Baltimore and enjoys living downtown, yoga, and biking around the City.

11-15 years

Worked with clients, legislators, and executive branch to implement critical initiatives including the Mississippi Charter School Act of 2013, the Literacy Based Promotion Act, and the Healthcare Collaboration Act.

American Cancer Society, Best Dressed Jackson Honoree, 2021

American Council of Young Political Leaders, Delegate to Cambodia and Malaysia, 2019

Appointed by Governor Haley Barbour to serve on the Board of Commissioners for the Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service.

Served as primary liaison between Department of Homeland Security and Governors, Advisors and staffs of five-state region. Coordinated media/press relations for office of Secretary Michael Chertoff.

Former intern for Office of Republican Whip (2007), United States Agency for International Development (2005) and White House Office of the First Lady (2004).

Caroline serves as a Senior Government Relations Advisor at Butler Snow LLP where she advocates for client interests covering a wide range of issues. She has successfully worked on the passage and implementation of new legislation creating further opportunities in the healthcare, education, transportation and financial industries. Additionally, she is experienced in state funding matters and has effectively represented multiple clients in efforts to secure state appropriations and bond funding.

Caroline has served on a number of boards and commissions including the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mississippi Board of Directors, the Mississippi Campaign for Grade Level Reading Advisory Board, Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service, University of Mississippi Young Alumni Board and as chair of the Fondren Renaissance Foundation Board. Caroline is a member of the American Council of Young Political Leaders and participated in their exchange program as a delegate to Cambodia and Malaysia in 2019.

She is also an active volunteer in the community spending time serving others through the Junior League of Jackson, Northminster Baptist Church, her children’s schools, and other community organizations.

Prior to joining Butler Snow, Caroline served in the Bush Administration as a State and Local Coordinator and an Assistant Press Secretary at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. She has held several internships including for Office of Republican Whip, the United States Agency for International Development and the White House Office of the First Lady. Caroline graduated summa cum laude from the University of Mississippi with a B.A. in International Studies and Spanish. During college she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa and was a member of the Sally McDonell Barksdale Honors College and the Croft Institute for International Studies.

20+ years

By any yardstick, Aaron Read and Associates is recognized as one of the premier lobbying firms in Sacramento. Whether it's based on annual billings or word of mouth referrals, ARA is at the top of the list. In addition, ARA has been listed as one of the top-ranked lobby firms in Capitol Weekly, a well-known publication, since they started their rankings 10 years ago.

Aaron Read and Associates' (ARA) services run the gamut of all types and aspects of Governmental Representation including the Administration, the Legislature and each of its committees, and regulatory agencies. In addition, ARA provides consulting on government procurement issues. Our sister company, Marketplace Communications, provides a full range of public affairs services including social media, campaigns, video and audio productions, and strategy to achieve your goals. Marketplace Communications has won numerous Pollie Awards from the American Association of Political Consultants.

Aaron Read has been a legislative advocate for more than forty-five years. He began his career in the late 1960s after he obtained a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA) and went to work for a large statewide association. Aaron formed Aaron Read & Associates (ARA) in 1978. ARA has grown into one of the most influential lobbying firms in California. The select list of clients covers a broad spectrum and allows the firm an opportunity to work with the entire political spectrum. Aaron has a unique perspective of what works and what doesn't in government and counsels clients on effective strategies to achieve their goals. Aaron has extensive experience in all phases of political work, including lobbying extremely complex and controversial issues, public relations and coalition building, as well as constitutional offices, legislative and initiative campaigns. Aaron also has special expertise in creating and managing large political action committees. Aaron is a lifelong pilot, has a lifetime teaching credential and is also a former graduate-level instructor in business and public administration at Golden Gate University. He enjoys spending time with his family, golf, SCUBA diving and other water sports and real estate investments when not walking the Capitol halls. ARA is unique. We represent numerous firefighters, law enforcement as well as fortune 500 companies like AT&T and 3M and large trade associations. As a result of our diverse client base, we build relationships with Democratic and Republican lawmakers during their campaigns, long before they are elected to office.

H. Boyd Pettit, III is Partner and General Counsel for GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group, LLC Pettit, a practicing Attorney since 1979, served as a Democratic member to the Georgia General Assembly for five consecutive terms beginning in January, 1983. Elected to the House of Representatives, succeeding newly elected Governor Joe Frank Harris, he was named a member of the House Appropriations, Judiciary, and Industry Committees. Pettit became Secretary to the Judiciary Committee and Chairman of the Public Services and Utilities Subcommittee of House Industry. During his membership in the House, Pettit served as Georgia's representative to the Southern States Energy Board and was selected as a participant in the Leadership Georgia Class of 1987. In 1993, he joined GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group while remaining active on behalf of local governments, local education entities, public bond finance issues, and local industrial recruitment and development. In September 2000, Pettit was selected to the Georgia State Board of Transportation. He was re-elected in January, 2001 to a full five-year term. Pettit currently serves on the State Board of the Georgia Youth Science and Technology Centers and is an active member of Sam Jones Memorial United Methodist Church in Cartersville. Previously serving on Board of Directors of the North Metro Technical Institute Foundation, Pettit was a part of the effort to secure property, utilities, and funding for the state adult technical school. Boyd has two daughters, Dana and Bray. They reside in Cartersville, Georgia.

15-20 years

In 2022, Kim and the RWW team were named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal.

Named to the 40 under 40 in 2016

Women in Business Honoree in 2021

Worked with Sen. Tom Carper as a key staffer on his Senate campaign in 2026.

Gubernatorial appointment to the Delaware Community Foundation board.

Worked on various campaigns in a fundraising position.

Kim Willson has been interested in politics for as long as she can remember and comes to Ruggerio Willson & Associates with extensive experience. Her diverse background, which covers statewide and Senatorial campaigns, local community organizations and work in the non-profit sector as well as Fortune 500 companies positions her as an immediate contributor to the success of RWW.

Kim's first foray into local politics started in college when she began working for the Delaware Volunteer Firemen's Association's (DVFA) administration. Her role with the DVFA provided Kim with first-hand knowledge of how local organizations and governments work together. It also gave her hands-on experience in cultivating those relationships, which is a skill vital to success in all aspects of government relations. Kim's next step was into national politics, serving as State Scheduler and Executive Assistant for United States Senator Tom Carper (D-DE). During this time, Kim was in daily communication with the Senator and served as the first point of contact for anyone trying to schedule meetings or events with him. She worked with both the Delaware and Washington, D.C. staff, and played an integral role in Senator Carper's successful 2006 Senate Re-Election Campaign.

Kim then entered the non-profit sector as the Program Manager for Vision 2015, an education reform program focused on transforming public education in Delaware to a world-class status. During her tenure with Vision 2015, Kim's daily interactions were with various school officials, the Department of Education, the University of Delaware Provosts, as well as state, local, and federal elected officials to further the mission, gain support, and work towards securing funding to continue the growth of the program.

Following her time with Vision 2015, Kim returned to the political campaign arena, serving as Regional Field Director in Kent County (DE) for the 2008 Delaware Democratic Party Coordinated Campaign. While there, Kim worked intimately with local, state, and federal elected officials and party leaders to ensure a Democratic win from the presidential race to the local offices, along with helping to secure a democratic majority in the Delaware House of Representatives.

Most recently, Kim led Government Relations for Valero Energy Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, in Delaware. During her tenure with Valero, Kim served as the face of Valero in Delaware, representing the company in the community but also working with members of Delaware's government on all levels, including the congressional delegation, State House of Representatives, State Senate, various state agencies, and the office of the governor. Kim worked to educate all parties about the refinery. She also helped to pull together union and state business leaders in order to stop a piece of legislation that would have cost Valero several million dollars.

Kim is married with two daughters. She is very involved with the local organization, Gals that Give. Aside from the beach, her favorite hang-outs are the local Crossfit box and yummy locally-owned restaurants.

Thomas Prasol serves as the Managing Director for Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol Inc. He has been providing strategy, lobbying, and association management for clients since 2011. He brings a myriad of experience in State and Federal government beginning his professional career as a Project Assistant to U.S. Senator Judd Gregg and as Policy and Field Coordinator for several State and Federal campaigns. In 2008 he transitioned to the position of Project Director for Senator Gregg where he handled federal appropriations in the areas of first responders. Upon Senator Gregg's retirement, he moved to the New Hampshire State Senate where he was a Legislative Aide to the Senate Education Committee. With his experience in federal and state government, Mr. Prasol brings another dimension to the firm in areas of strategy, management of special projects, and government affairs implementation. He continues to bring his experience and knowledge to assist State and Federal campaigns with strategy and policy research. In addition to his work for Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol, he serves on the Town Planning Board and has previously served as Chair of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in his local community He received his Bachelor's degree in Politics from Saint Anselm College where he served as an Ambassador to the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, and his Master's degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University. He currently resides in Hooksett, NH with his fiance' Maria and two dogs Zeus and Tyson.

James H. "Jay" Roberts is the most recent member of our team. Prior to joining GeorgiaLink, Mr. Roberts served in the Georgia State House of Representatives (2003-2015) while in the House, Jay was elected as both Vice-Chairman and Chairman of the House Majority Caucus by his peers. Former Gov. Sonny Perdue asked him to serve as his Administration Floor Leader in his second term. He served in that capacity for 2 years. Jay was named the Chairman of the House Transportation Committee by the Speaker of the House in 2010. He served as Chairman of the House Transportation Committee for 6 years. During his tenure in the House, Jay served on the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Ethics, Economic Development & Tourism, Ways & Means, Appropriations, Rules, Game & Fish and Transportation Committees. Jay has served several communities during his 13 years in the House. He served Irwin, Ben Hill, Tift, Turner, Coffee, Telfair, Wheeler, Wilcox and Jeff Davis counties. Governor Nathan Deal appointed Jay to the distinguish position of Director of Planning for the State of Georgia at the Georgia Department of Transportation. He was tasked with the planning of the State's Transportation projects including developing and implementing the STIP. Governor Kemp asked Jay to serve on his Transition Team. He was then asked by Governor Brian Kemp to continue to serve him as the Director of Planning. In September, 2019 Mr. Roberts joined GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group. He and his wife Sarah have two children, and they reside in Irwin County.

11-15 years

Deemed by the Delaware State News as the most active lobbyist based on the number of bills registered

In 2022, Verity and the RWW team were named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal.

Listed as a member of 40 under 40 in 2023

Served as President and Grants Chair of the Next Generation-South, a local organization that supports nonprofits in Kent and Sussex counties and Secretary of Spur Impact, the nonprofit that puts on the annual Mill Summit.

Served on the school board for First State Military Academy, a public charter school in Kent County. On Lt. Governors Gay's Finance Committee

Staffed a bi-partisain legislative joint committee

Verity Watson joined Ruggerio Willson Watson in 2016 after working for the Delaware General Assembly where she gained an intimate understanding of the legislative process, policy analysis experience, and built strong working relationships with elected officials and state agency leaders. In her current role, Verity guides clients in the creation and execution of strategic government relations plans that result in policy changes, monetary investments, and relationship building with elected officials and government leaders. She works in policy areas ranging from education to energy to health.

During the 2018 legislative session, Verity was deemed by the Delaware State News as the most active lobbyist based on the number of bills registered. In 2022, Verity and the RWA team were named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal. She was recognized by the Delaware Association of Chiefs of Police for her advocacy.

Verity has served as President and Grants Chair of the Next Generation-South, a local organization that supports nonprofits in Kent and Sussex counties and Secretary of Spur Impact, the nonprofit that puts on the annual Mill Summit. She also served on the school board for First State Military Academy, a public charter school in Kent County. Verity spends much of her free time at the Cape Henlopen and Seashore State Park beaches with her husband and young daughter and son.

DENNIS J. KEARNEY concentrates his practice in government. He provides legal, legislative and strategic services to clients affected by local, state or federal government policy, legislation or regulation. Dennis formerly served in local, state and county government including 12 years in elected office as a member of the Massachusetts Legislature and as Sheriff of Suffolk County. Prior to forming Kearney, Donovan & McGee, LLC in 2003, Mr. Kearney managed the government practice group at Choate, Hall & Stewart, and served as President of Kearney & Gleason, P.C.

20+ years

Named one of the "Top 20 Most Influential in Politics and Business" by the Wilmington News Journal and DelawareOnline.com for four consecutive years (2021-2024).

In 2022, the RWW team was named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal.

In 2025, I chaired the inaugural festivities for Governor Matt Meyer.

I currently serve as Interim Head of Government Relations at the University of Delaware, sit on the boards of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and UD's Department of Political Science, and teach Lobbying and Influence at University of Delaware's Joseph R. Biden School of Public Policy.

On Attorney General Kathy Jennings Finance Committee On Congresswoman McBride's Finance Committee

Led the Delaware Democratic Party's Coordinated Campaign, including the late Beau Biden's election as Attorney General, and served as a National Committeeman and super delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

Rhett Ruggerio launched his political career in Wilmington, Delaware, managing the successful 2000 mayoral campaign of James M. Baker. He went on to serve as a top advisor to the Mayor, chairing two re-election campaigns and helping secure three terms in office. Rhett also led the Delaware Democratic Party's Coordinated Campaign, including the late Beau Biden's election as Attorney General, and served as a National Committeeman and super delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

In 2025, he chaired the inaugural festivities for Governor Matt Meyer.

Rhett founded Ruggerio Willson & Associates in 2005 (now Ruggerio Willson Watson), a top-ranked firm in Delaware. He's been named one of the "Top 20 Most Influential in Politics and Business" by the Wilmington News Journal and DelawareOnline.com for four consecutive years (2021-2024).

Currently, Rhett serves as Interim Head of Government Relations at the University of Delaware, sits on the boards of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and UD's Department of Political Science, and teaches Lobbying and Influence at University of Delaware's Joseph R. Biden School of Public Policy.

Outside of work, Rhett enjoys time at the Delaware beaches, walking his pups Ted and Dixie - or chauffeuring his wife and daughters on a shopping run.

11-15 years

Natalie conducts client and legislative research and has become skilled at monitoring and communicating the actions of the PA General Assembly to clients. In addition to client communications on legislation, Natalie monitors the budget hearing process for clients; pinpointing pertinent information and relaying it in a timely manner. Natalie regularly interacts with legislative staff and administrative officials on client issues and has planned and executed advocacy days for multiple clients. She has also attended state board meetings on behalf of clients and monitors regulatory activity -- working to guide clients through regulatory process.

20+ years

James M. Demers is the founder of The Demers Group and Demers, Blaisdell Inc., he presently serves as President & CEO of Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol Inc. Mr. Demers is a former member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives and former congressional candidate. He has over 40 years of experience in the legislative, regulatory and political fields. He has been a political commentator for numerous media outlets including ABC News, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News as well as NH news stations WMUR-TV, WBIN-TV and New England Cable News. He has been actively involved in advising presidential campaigns, serving as co-chairman of President Barack Obama's NH campaign in 2008. He presently serves on the advisory board of the NH Institute of Politics at St. Anselm College, chairman of the NH International Trade Advisory Commission and he is a "political insider" for Politico and the National Journal. He was nominated by President Obama and confirmed by the US Senate to serve on the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, which is the country's development financial institution. He has been recognized by numerous state and national publications as one of New Hampshire's "most influential" and "most powerful" people. He is a graduate of the University of Miami (FL) and he holds an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. He served three terms in the NH House where he served as the Assistant Minority Whip. He has also served as President and Executive Director of the New England-New York-New Jersey Financial Services Association and the National Card Coalition after doing corporate government affairs work for two national financial services companies. He is a resident of Concord, NH.

15-20 years

Angie is a government relations professional with over 15 years of experience in Harrisburg. During her tenure as Senior Associate for McNees-Winter Group LLC her duties include interaction with legislative and administrative officials in areas such as health care policy, economic development and tax policies, transportation issues, and procurement. Angie monitors regulatory developments, state contracts, and other state programs and communicates these items to clients on a regular basis. Angie represents clients across a wide spectrum of industries and excels at understanding their unique challenges. She participates in numerous coalitions on behalf of clients.

For seven years Angie was also the Managing Director of the Pennsylvania Association of Nurse Anesthetists. During her time spent there the association improved efficiencies and doubled attendance at annual conferences. She handled large and small scale event planning, coordinated annual elections, oversaw various committee functions, supported executive officers in their monthly activities, and handled day-to-day inquiries from association members.

Angie currently resides in Camp Hill, PA with her husband, Jim, and their two children.

6-10 years

MICHELLE MCGEE focuses her practice on government affairs representation before government bodies at the local, state and federal levels. She has extensive experience representing clients' interests before both the Massachusetts and Connecticut legislative and executive branches of government. Formerly, Michelle worked at New England Electric System (now National Grid) where she developed and implemented comprehensive legislative and external strategies to achieve New England Electric's public policy initiatives in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. Prior to establishing Kearney, Donovan & McGee, LLC, Ms. McGee was a member of the government affairs practice group at Choate, Hall & Stewart.