Why It Matters

Eldorado’s entry into federal lobbying signals urgent business pressure from tariffs. The gaming and hospitality giant is a first-time federal lobbyist, marking a strategic shift as construction material costs surge.

The company hired Steptoe LLP and registered Kevin Patrick Garvey, a specialist in Section 232 tariff investigations. This expertise directly addresses Eldorado’s core problem: steel, aluminum, and furniture tariffs are driving up development costs across its casino and hotel portfolio.

Congress is actively examining tariff impacts through multiple committee hearings. Bipartisan members—from Rep. Greg Stanton (D-AZ) to Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY)—are publicly opposing tariffs on construction materials. While no specific legislation is moving, receptivity appears high.

Eldorado’s lobbying will likely target tariff exemptions or broader trade policy revision. The company faces competition with rivals like Wynn, which halted $375 million in capital expenditures citing tariff uncertainty. The gaming sector lacks organized coalition advocacy compared to homebuilders, positioning Eldorado as a potential leading voice for hospitality interests.

By the Numbers

Pacific Square LLC represents Eldorado’s first federal lobbying effort after operating without Washington representation. The company hired Steptoe LLP, a major firm with deep trade and tariff expertise.

Kevin Patrick Garvey serves as the sole registered lobbyist. His client portfolio includes Wacker Polysilicon North America LLC on Section 232 investigations, Medline Industries LP on Commerce Department engagement, and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. on tariff matters.

The Agenda

Pacific Square LLC is lobbying on trade and investment issues, specifically targeting tariff policy impacts on construction materials and imported goods.

This marks Eldorado’s first federal lobbying effort as the company faces mounting pressure from tariffs on materials essential for casino and hotel development. Multiple committees have held hearings examining tariff impacts on housing and construction, with senators from both parties expressing concern about rising development costs.

Garvey brings direct experience with Section 232 tariff investigations—the authority used for steel and aluminum tariffs affecting Eldorado’s operations.

Broader Context

Congress is increasingly focused on tariffs’ impact on construction and housing affordability. The Senate Finance Committee examined trade policy concerns in February, while the Senate Banking Committee questioned nominees about tariff effects on housing development.

Members across party lines have vocalized opposition. Rep. Adam Smith detailed how steel and aluminum tariffs function as a construction industry tax. Rep. Delia C. Ramirez linked tariff policies to affordable housing shortages.

For hospitality operators like Eldorado, tariffs on steel, aluminum, lumber, and imported furnishings represent significant cost pressures on capital expenditure projects, threatening development pipelines and renovation schedules.

Between The Lines

Congressional hearings reveal growing momentum for tariff relief. The Senate Banking Committee specifically questioned nominees on tariffs’ effect on housing development, while Finance Committee discussions focused on supply chain disruption.

No specific legislation currently addresses construction material tariffs, but the congressional environment suggests receptiveness to future action. The bipartisan concern creates opportunity for industry advocacy on trade relief.

Competitive Landscape

Other hospitality operators face identical pressures, though coordinated advocacy appears fragmented. Wynn Resorts halted $375 million in capital expenditures citing tariff-induced uncertainty, while Light & Wonder’s CEO described the situation as "dynamic."

The National Association of Home Builders has successfully lobbied for exemptions, but no centralized coalition represents gaming and hospitality interests. NAHB estimates tariff costs at $10,900 per home, with project costs rising 4.4% to 4.8%.

This fragmentation suggests Eldorado could establish leadership in largely unoccupied advocacy terrain within the hospitality sector.

The Bottom Line

Eldorado’s federal lobbying launch through Steptoe LLP and Kevin Patrick Garvey addresses core business vulnerabilities from construction material tariffs. Congress shows increasing receptivity to industry concerns through hearings and bipartisan statements, though no single legislative vehicle is currently moving. Eldorado enters a policy landscape where hospitality sectors appear underrepresented compared to homebuilders, potentially positioning the company to shape emerging trade discussions.

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