Why it Matters

A D.C.-based real estate company, Donohoe Commercial Real Estate LLC, is expanding its federal lobbying operation just as Congress pushes to slash government property holdings by 50%. They have brought in Liberty Government Affairs to its advocacy team in November 2024. This move diversifies Donohoe’s existing lobbying corps by adding Brian Homer Darling, a consultant known for his deep Senate Republican ties.

By the Numbers

Total lobbying team: Three firms now represent Donohoe

  • ArentFox Schiff LLP: $270,000 spent across nine disclosures (October 2023-July 2025)
  • Navigators Global LLC: $80,000 spent across three disclosures (early 2025)
  • Liberty Government Affairs: New addition as of November 2024

Key lobbyist: Brian Homer Darling brings nearly four years of Senate Republican experience, including roles with Sen. Rand Paul, Sen. Mel Martinez, and Sen. Bob Smith.

The Agenda

Donohoe is lobbying on “potential federal government utilization of real estate property in the District of Columbia.” Their focus includes federal property management, leasing policies, and relocation decisions. Review their lobbying disclosure which covers real estate, government issues, and urban development.

Broader Context

The federal government owns over 250,000 buildings costing $10 billion annually to operate. Congressional hearings like Federal Foreclosure: Reducing the Federal Real Estate Portfolio revealed severe underutilization of federal buildings, with some agencies using as little as 9% of their headquarters capacity. The Trump administration set a goal to reduce the federal footprint by half.

Competitive Landscape

Donohoe operates in a crowded lobbying environment for real estate policy. Industry groups such as Commercial Real Estate Exchange Inc. and International Council of Shopping Centers spend hundreds of thousands quarterly on tax and regulatory advocacy. Direct competitors including Brookfield Corp. also lobby on commercial real estate matters.

Between the Lines

Congress is actively examining federal real estate efficiency. The America Builds: Making Federal Real Estate Work for the Taxpayer hearing highlighted massive underutilization. The DOGE subcommittee conducted live on-location examinations of federal properties. However, Ranking Members Larsen and Stanton expressed concerns about the administration’s approach, warning of a potential “fire sale approach” to asset disposal.

Relevant legislation includes the ROAD to Housing Act of 2025 (S.2651) and housing supply bills. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced H.R. 2038 to eliminate the SEC’s independent leasing authority. The Bipartisan Congressional Real Estate Caucus offers industry engagement opportunities.

The Bottom Line

Donohoe’s hiring of Liberty Government Affairs positions the company to influence federal property disposal policies. With the addition of Republican Senate expertise through Darling, the firm complements its existing bipartisan representation. The timing aligns with historic congressional efforts to dramatically reduce government real estate holdings.

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