Federal Government Relations
Advocacy and Policy Intelligence
Provide timely, critical information on political dynamics, legislative intentions, and regulatory timelines to allow clients to anticipate developments and act strategically.
Policy Analysis and Message Development
Analyze legislative and regulatory proposals to determine the impact on client organizations and craft a clear, tailored communication strategy.
Legislative and Regulatory Advocacy
Strategically deliver your message to key decision makers in Congress and the administration to advance your federal priorities.
Strategic Guidance
Offer strategic advice on the ever-changing political and legislative environment. Develop a comprehensive approach for achieving federal policy objectives.
Federal Funding Advocacy
Expert guidance through the complex federal funding process including grants and appropriations. Helping clients to identify, pursue, and secure federal funding.
Relationship Management
Cultivate and maintain long-term, trust-based relationships with key elected officials and agency staff through political shifts and turnover.
Full-Service Fly-In
Facilitate advocacy meetings in Washington, DC. Secure meetings with policymakers, provide on-the-ground intelligence and guidance, and prepare tailored briefing materials. Handle logistics, strategy development, and follow-up to increase your organization's visibility.
Coalition Building
Identify, recruit, and coordinate stakeholders with shared interests to form a unified front and amplify the client’s message.
Shirley Speidell
As President of Smits Speidell Consulting, Shirley Speidell brings three decades of experience in federal government relations to her clients. Throughout her distinguished career, Shirley has effectively advocated for a wide array of organizations, including local governments, Tribal governments, water and sewer districts, industry associations, and corporations. Her expertise spans a comprehensive range of policy issues including critical infrastructure, water resource development, ecosystem restoration, transportation, economic development, energy, public safety, telecommunications, technology, and nuanced taxation matters.
Shirley’s career on Capitol Hill included working for U.S. Senators Susan Collins (ME) and Robert Packwood (OR), and U.S. Representative Linda Smith (WA). She also served as professional staff for the U.S. House Committee on Science, Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee. Shirley holds a bachelor’s degree in business economics from Willamette University.
Contact
Shirley Speidell, President Shirley@smitsspeidell.com
Washington, DC
“Shirley is the gold standard of federal lobbying. She combines a profound understanding of client needs with an unmatched ability to navigate the complexities of Capitol Hill and deliver results.”
- Reagan Dunn
King County Council Vice Chair
Endorsements
“Shirley is a trusted partner. Her experience, guidance and political insight are a valuable resource for navigating uncertainty.”
- Dow Constantine
Sound Transit CEO
“When it comes to local government representation in Washington, Shirley stands out. She skillfully translates local priorities into successful federal government relations strategies.”
- Randy Franke
Marion County Commissioner
(1979-2003)
