Why It Matters

First Global Technology is operating in a rapidly evolving policy environment surrounding artificial intelligence infrastructure. Congress continues to consider legislation addressing AI competitiveness, energy demand and the environmental impacts of data center development.

First Global Technology reported $150,000 in federal lobbying expenditures during the second quarter of 2026, according to a lobbying disclosure filed July 16. The company retained Checkmate Government Relations LLC to lead its congressional advocacy, continuing the same spending level and lobbying team it used during the previous quarter.

Pending legislation includes the AI Data Center Site Selection Transparency Act, which would require certain AI data center developers to publicly disclose project plans before construction begins, including information on location, electricity demand, water use and other resource requirements. Congress has also introduced legislation aimed at reducing U.S. dependence on Chinese AI technology and assessing China's AI-related electricity requirements.

By the Numbers

First Global Technology reported $150,000 in lobbying expenditures during the second-quarter of 2026, matching the $150,000 it reported during the first-quarter. During the fourth-quarter of 2025, the company reported $50,000 in lobbying expenditures.

The company continued to use the same four-person lobbying team: Ches McDowell IV, managing partner at Checkmate Government Relations LLC; Usman Rahim, government relations director; Chris LaCivita Jr., public affairs director; and Nelson Freeman, partner and chief operating officer.

Rahim previously served as a Senate staff assistant, including in the personal office of Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). McDowell has filed 259 lobbying disclosure reports during his career, while Rahim has filed 132, LaCivita 207 and Freeman 21.

The Bottom Line

First Global Technology maintained its federal lobbying expenditures during the second quarter of 2026 as Congress continues debating AI infrastructure, data center development and U.S. technology competitiveness. The company's unchanged spending and lobbying team suggest a sustained effort to engage policymakers on artificial intelligence and related technology policy.

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