Looking Ahead to 2020: ABI Hires New Public Policy Executive
December 13, 2019 | 2020 here we come
As we look back at 2019, the legislative session and interim were successful for ABI members. You can read all about those accomplishments on ABI’s website. In addition, this fall, members of ABI’s Board and Executive Committee flew to Washington, D.C. and met with members of Iowa’s Congressional delegation and key allies with the National Association of Manufacturers, BIPAC and other organizations. While it’s great to reflect on our progress, to use the words of ABI Board Chair Cindy Dietz, as an association we have the “Future in Focus.”
As we look to 2020, ABI has some exciting news to share about the association’s future. The public policy team will welcome a new face, JD Davis, who will lead our efforts at the state capitol. Davis is a 22-year veteran of lobbying in the state. He will be joined by Brad Hartkopf, ABI’s respected director of public policy, who will begin his fourth session with the association. The team will continue the non-stop representation for the Iowa business community at the Capitol. We are fortunate to have JD join ABI. As a former member of the ABI Board and Executive Committee, he understands the association. His history with ABI goes back to the legacy of the Hauser/Soener lobbying team. In addition to JD and Brad, ABI’s President Mike Ralston and I will provide legislative insight to ABI members and attend legislative meetings as requested by the policy team.
The ABI Board and staff are excited about the changes ahead. JD Davis will help continue to advance ABI’s priorities without missing a beat. You can contact him at jddavis@iowaabi.org or 515-235-0567. Whether you want political insight, advice about how to talk to your employees about the Iowa caucuses or ways to advocate to your local legislators, we hope you’ll reach out to ABI. ABI is your one-stop shop for policy and politics, and we look forward to seeing you in the new year at the ABI Legislative Briefing and Reception. Make sure to register prior to Dec. 20 for the early-bird discount. The reception will be held on Jan. 15, 2020. See you then!