Why It Matters

Qualcomm faces a critical challenge securing government support for its C-V2X connected vehicle technology while navigating restrictive export controls. The company’s lobbying engagement with O’Keeffe Shahmoradi Strategies LLC signals a strategic pivot toward influencing transportation infrastructure policy precisely as the FCC finalized rules permitting C-V2X deployment. The real test is whether Congress will fund infrastructure rollout and adoption incentives that could make Qualcomm’s technology standard across the U.S. automotive industry. Meanwhile, new tariffs on semiconductor imports and tightening export controls on AI chips to China constrain Qualcomm’s global revenue, requiring sustained engagement across multiple legislative fronts.

By the Numbers

Qualcomm Inc. has spent more than $235 million on lobbying since 2003 across over 650 filings. Its strategy combines a robust in-house team accounting for $138.1 million with engagements from over 30 external firms.

In the final quarter Qualcomm paid $50,000 to O’Keeffe Shahmoradi Strategies LLC, a specialized transportation infrastructure firm. This represents a strategic shift targeting connected vehicle technologies rather than expanding traditional intellectual property and trade policy focus.

O’Keeffe Shahmoradi brings deep transportation policy relationships that other Qualcomm firms lack, representing automotive clients including Ford Motor Co. and the American Trucking Associations Inc.. This partnership began in 2023 and continues through the end of 2025.

The Agenda

Qualcomm Inc. is lobbying on connected vehicle technologies and transportation safety through O’Keeffe Shahmoradi Strategies LLC. The firm specializes in transportation infrastructure policy and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act implementation.

Qualcomm’s broader agenda focuses on:

  • Connected and Automated Vehicles: Infrastructure policies affecting vehicle connectivity
  • 5G and Wireless Technology: Spectrum allocation and deployment strategies
  • Intellectual Property Protection: Patent reform and international IP enforcement
  • Trade and Export Controls: Managing restrictions, particularly regarding China
  • Artificial Intelligence: Shaping AI regulation and development policies
  • Tax Policy: R&D tax credits and international tax reform

The $50,000 quarterly payment continues work begun in 2023, focusing on C-V2X and transportation safety technologies as Congress advances semiconductor supply chain legislation.

Broader Context

Congress is reshaping semiconductor policy amid accelerating China threats. The FCC’s early 2025 C-V2X rules in the 5.9 GHz spectrum create momentum for connected vehicle infrastructure aligning with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon platform. Lawmakers advanced the Senate-passed Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains Act and proposals expanding semiconductor design tax credits through the STAR Act.

However, significant headwinds exist. The Trump administration imposed 25% tariffs on advanced semiconductors, and Congress advanced restrictive export controls targeting China, including bills requiring congressional approval for advanced AI chip exports.

Between The Lines

Congress is intensifying focus on Qualcomm’s core business areas. The House Foreign Affairs Committee examined export control loopholes for chipmaking tools, while multiple bills advance to restrict semiconductor exports to China, including the No Advanced Chips for the CCP Act.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee actively examines wireless technology through hearings on American wireless leadership and communications infrastructure security. Congress is also accelerating AI oversight, with committees examining AI innovation trends and China’s Deepseek advancement.

Competitive Landscape

Qualcomm operates in a crowded lobbying environment. Samsung Semiconductor Inc. and Samsung Electronics America actively lobby on CHIPS Act implementation and supply chain resilience. In transportation, O’Keeffe Shahmoradi’s roster includes Ford Motor Co. and American Trucking Associations, creating competing voices in vehicle technology policy.

The Bottom Line

Qualcomm’s $50,000 fourth quarter payment to O’Keeffe Shahmoradi represents targeted portfolio management—adding specialized transportation expertise while maintaining established relationships handling core issues. As Congress advances semiconductor supply chain legislation, imposes China export controls, and finalizes C-V2X frameworks, this engagement underscores how major tech companies maintain multiple specialized lobbying relationships to navigate fragmented committees and competing priorities simultaneously.

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