THE LIST: The next round of the Washington Reporter’s Most Influential Lobbyist List is here!
The next round of the Washington Reporter’s Most Influential Lobbyist List is here! These individuals embody the grit and determination that comes in the public policy sphere and are the real movers, shakers, and doers of D.C.
If you have a nominee, please send your submission to Matthew@WashingtonReporter.news.
Check out the list below:
D.C.’s Most Influential Lobbyists: Part II
1. Jim Carroll
Professional Services Counsel
Jim Carroll, appointed CEO of the Professional Services Council on May 19, 2025, is a titan in government contracting. Blending Trump administration experience with a decade as Ford Motor Co.’s Washington counsel, Carroll masterfully aligns public and private sectors. His 20-year public service career shapes his leadership of PSC’s 400+ member companies, fostering innovation in federal partnerships.Quote from The Hill: “Jim’s knack for uniting industry and government is unmatched. He knows how to cut to the chase and the complicated FAR regulations to explain what agencies are really looking for.”
2. Drew Hudson
TechNet
Drew Hudson, TechNet’s Vice President and General Counsel, is a legal force in Washington’s tech arena. With over a decade of federal legal, policy, and communications experience, Hudson leads TechNet’s charge on a myriad of policy issues, providing sharp regulatory counsel on tax, trade, venture capital and startups, and other topics. He also runs TechNet's Innovation Legal Center.Quote from The Hill: “Drew’s a knife-fighter who masters politics and comms. He’s deeply connected, and knows how to navigate tough situations where Republicans are skeptical of the tech industry.”
3. John Martin
Capitol Counsel
John Martin, head of Capitol Counsel’s healthcare practice, is a linchpin in Washington’s policy arena. A former FDA Principal Associate Commissioner for Legislation under Trump, and legislative director for Sen. Tom Cotton (R., Ark.), Martin’s expertise shapes health care policy wins for clients like Amgen and NCPA. His work on FDA policy issues including user fees and Medicaid reform showcases his influence. With a bipartisan approach and unmatched policy chops, Martin drives results, cementing his status as a trusted leader in navigating complex legislative landscapes.Quote from the Hill: “John’s strategic mind earns him deep respect among Republicans on the Hill. He’s trusted and is even a mentor to junior staff.”
4. Katie Payne
PCMA
Katie Payne, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs at PCMA, is the quarterback of the pharmacy benefit managers’ (PBMs) media strategy, steering a complex industry through turbulent policy waters. With over two decades in healthcare communications, including a stint at Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Payne crafts PCMA’s narrative to highlight PBMs’ role in lowering drug costs for 275 million Americans. Despite tackling the tough issue of PBM scrutiny, she keeps winning with sharp advocacy and reputation management.Quote from the Hill: “Katie’s a relentless strategist who shapes the debate. The fact that PBMs have made it this far without anti-PBM legislation passing is a miracle. And a big part of that is Katie”
5. Tyler Grassmeyer
Microsoft
Tyler Grassmeyer, Microsoft’s Director of Congressional Affairs since November 2024, is a strategic force in tech policy. A University of Nebraska journalism graduate, Grassmeyer’s career includes serving as Chief of Staff in the U.S. House and top advisor to Sen. Ben Sasse (R., Neb.), forging deep Senate relationships. His tenure at Observatory Group sharpened his policy expertise before joining Microsoft to steer AI and regulatory advocacy. Grassmeyer’s deft approach has helped Microsoft sidestep the regulatory pitfalls ensnaring other Big Tech firms.Quote from the Hill: “Tyler navigates politics and comms with unmatched precision. Microsoft has kept a bipartisan relationship and avoided the targeting that Meta & Google get. Tyler plays a big role in making that happen.”
