Why It Matters
The International Organization for Migration has terminated its lobbying engagement with Neale Creek LLC, effective June 30, according to an LDA termination filing submitted in the second quarter of 2026.
By The Numbers
The termination of the International Organization for Migration account represents a meaningful loss for Neale Creek LLC. The client generated $160,000 in total reported fees across its engagement with the firm, making it one of several mid-tier clients on the firm's roster alongside representation of the World Wildlife Fund and BMW of North America LLC, each accounting for $160,000 in reported fees.
Broader Context
During its engagement with Neale Creek LLC, the International Organization for Migration focused its lobbying efforts on immigration and foreign relations policy matters. The specific issue the firm advocated on was humane and orderly migration, touching policy areas coded as both Immigration and Foreign Relations.
The lobbying activity took place during a period of significant congressional attention to immigration matters. From 2025 through the first half of 2026, Republican and Democratic members of Congress engaged in sustained debate over border security funding, asylum policy, and the broader immigration system. While the available disclosure records do not identify specific legislative targets or bills, the timing suggests the International Organization for Migration sought to engage lawmakers on issues within its mandate.
Andrew King, who held the title of Director of Business Development at Neale Creek LLC, served as the lobbyist on the International Organization for Migration engagement. King brings significant government experience to his work. He previously served in the U.S. Senate, working for the late Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. During his Senate tenure in the 114th Congress, King held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff in Sen. Graham's personal office.
Cornerstone brings distinct congressional expertise to the International Organization for Migration's advocacy. Steve Marchese serves as Principal on the account and brings committee experience with the House Appropriations Committee across multiple Congresses from the 112th through 117th. That expertise directly aligns with the International Organization for Migration's stated lobbying focus, which includes the Annual Appropriations bill for the Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs.
The firm's team also includes Stacy Rich, who serves as Principal or Director on the International Organization for Migration engagement. Rich brings prior experience working for Sen. Patty Murray of Washington and Sen. Thomas Daschle of South Dakota, as well as committee experience with the Senate Budget Committee during the 113th Congress. Courtney Cano serves as Vice President on the account, and Michael Altes serves as Senior Associate.
The International Organization for Migration's lobbying activity with Cornerstone focuses on Budget and Appropriations matters alongside Foreign Relations issue codes. This tracks closely with the organization's previous advocacy priorities with Neale Creek LLC, suggesting continuity in the client's policy objectives even as its representation changed. The shift to Cornerstone provided access to deeper appropriations committee relationships, particularly on the House side, which may prove valuable as the organization seeks to influence federal funding decisions that affect its operations and missions abroad.
The Bottom Line
The termination of the Neale Creek LLC engagement and the corresponding emphasis on appropriations expertise at Cornerstone Government Affairs suggest the International Organization for Migration determined it needed specialized strength in legislative budgeting processes.
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