Why it Matters

The D.C. economic lobbying landscape gained a significant new player as the Federal City Council registered for federal lobbying in 2025, hiring Fierce Government Relations to advance economic development and infrastructure priorities in the nation’s capital.

This comes as Congress considers multiple bills that could reshape D.C.’s federal footprint and economic landscape.

By the Numbers

Lobbying Team: Seven lobbyists from Fierce Government Relations will represent the Council.

Key Experience: Jacobus A. Vreeburg served over 12 years in House Republican leadership roles. William H. Piper III was Chief of Staff to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Firm Portfolio: Fierce Government Relations has managed over $140 million in lobbying expenditures since 2003.

Pro Bono Work: Vreeburg’s work for the Federal City Council is on a pro bono basis.

Broader Context

Multiple congressional bills target reducing the federal government’s D.C. presence. The DRAIN THE SWAMP Act and Commission to Relocate the Federal Bureaucracy Act could significantly impact the city’s economy. Meanwhile, the District of Columbia Board of Zoning Adjustment Home Rule Act would expand local control. These competing legislative priorities create an uncertain environment for D.C.’s future.

The Agenda

The Council is lobbying broadly on “Economic Development and Physical Infrastructure Improvement.” Focus areas include transportation, D.C. issues, and economic development. No specific legislation is listed in the registration. This suggests a wide-ranging effort to engage Congress and federal agencies on core infrastructure priorities.

Competitive Landscape

Several organizations lobby on similar D.C. infrastructure issues. Akridge advocates for Union Station Expansion Project funding. Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689 pushes for D.C. Metro funding. HITT Contracting Inc. seeks federal infrastructure investments. The Service Employees International Union advocates for D.C. budgetary autonomy.

Between The Lines

Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton and Sen. Chris Van Hollen introduced legislation making the Union Station Redevelopment Corporation eligible for federal transportation grants. Norton serves as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit. Sen. Van Hollen advocates for D.C.’s right to spend its own funds without federal restrictions. However, Rep. Greg Steube introduced a bill to rename the D.C. Metro system, highlighting ongoing political tensions. Recent Senate and House hearings focused on surface transportation reauthorization and infrastructure assessment.

The Bottom Line

The Federal City Council’s lobbying registration positions it to influence federal policy during a critical period.

All data used in this article came from Legis1. Request a demo to learn more!