Leading Florida political lobbyists to discuss midterm elections

November 9, 2010

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Two of Florida’s leading political insiders will discuss how lobbyists help shape policy Wednesday at the University of Florida’s Bob Graham Center for Public Service.

Democrat Kathy Baughman McLeod, head of the Public Policy Group at the law firm Bryant Miller Olive, will be paired with Republican Richard Pinsky, president and founder of Pinsky Consulting Group, to review the election results and foreshadow what is to come on the state and local political scene. Lester Abberger, senior consultant to the D.A. Davidson investment banking firm, will serve as moderator. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. in Pugh Hall’s Reading Room.

The participants will not only address what is next for the Sunshine State but will also discuss the role of today’s lobbyist. For last week’s midterm congressional campaigns, the top lobbyist-funded House and Senate candidates received more than $9 million to fuel their campaigns.

An informal dinner reception will follow this event. For more information, visit the Center’s website at www.bobgrahamcenter.ufl.edu.

In her position, Baughman McLeod develops and manages the consultancy that helps clients build effective business strategies; establish political, corporate, and governmental partnerships at the local, state, federal and international level; identify and address political and regulatory risks; and prepare for and take advantage of the new low-carbon economy. Prior to joining Bryant Miller Olive, she served as the deputy chief of staff to Florida Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink.

Pinsky, identified in Fortune Magazine as one of the premier “grass-tops” lobbyists in the country, has coupled his political instincts along with his reputation for integrity, which has established him as one of Florida’s best strategic talents. His extensive knowledge of all aspects of the budget and legislative process has made him a frequent resource for organizations and state associations wishing to learn the ins and outs of effective lobbying.

Abberger also serves as managing partner of Florida Lobby Associates and vice president of Hometown Neighborhoods, a new urbanist real estate consulting and development concern; and managing partner of Call Street Capital LLP. He serves on the corporate boards of Fuhlberg Koch Architects and M and S Banks.

The Bob Graham Center for Public Service is a community of students, scholars and politically engaged citizens, devoted to enhanced citizenship; the training of current and future public and civic leaders who can identify problems and spearhead change; and the development of policy on issues of importance to Florida, the United States and the global community.