Why it Matters
March GL Co. just entered federal lobbying for the first time. The company registered Checkmate Government Relations LLC in July 2025. This marks their inaugural lobbying effort on foreign relations and natural resources policy. The timing comes six months after Trump’s executive order opened unprecedented Arctic development opportunities.
By the Numbers
Lobbying Team Investment:
- Three experienced lobbyists handling the account
- Frederick Watson Vaughan: $2.7M in fees across 22 clients since 2022
- Christopher Joseph LaCivita Jr.: $2.3M in fees from April-July 2025
- Charles Franklin McDowell IV: Extensive infrastructure experience
March GL Co.’s History:
- Zero previous lobbying registrations
- First disclosure filed August 15, 2025
- No prior federal policy engagement
Broader Context
Trump’s January 2025 Executive Order 14153 unleashed Alaska’s resource potential. The order rescinded all Biden-era Arctic restrictions and reinstated ANWR drilling. It opened 7+ million additional acres on Alaska’s North Slope to oil development. The Arctic Council suspended Russia collaboration after Ukraine’s invasion. Chinese research vessels now operate near Alaska with Coast Guard surveillance. Three major Arctic shipping routes are expected operational by 2025.
The Agenda
March GL Co. is lobbying on foreign relations and natural resources policy. No specific legislation or issues were disclosed in their registration. Their focus areas align with active congressional debates on Arctic energy development. Multiple bills address Arctic international cooperation and drilling moratoriums.
Competitive Landscape
Congress remains sharply divided on Arctic development. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-AK) advocates for Alaska as “America’s Arctic” with energy dominance advantages. Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) promotes the Arctic Refuge Protection Act designating ANWR as wilderness. The Stop Arctic Ocean Drilling Act seeks permanent drilling moratoriums. Recent Arctic lease sales generated zero bids according to environmental advocates.
Between The Lines
March GL Co.’s lobbying priorities mirror current Arctic policy debates. Congress is considering an Ambassador-at-Large for Arctic Affairs position. The Arctic Watchers Act authorizes $10M annually to counter China-Russia Arctic influence. Bipartisan resolutions like S.Res.167 reaffirm U.S. Arctic Council commitment. The company’s timing suggests positioning for Arctic development opportunities created by Trump’s policy reversal.
The Bottom Line
March GL Co. enters lobbying during a pivotal Arctic policy moment. Trump’s executive order created new development opportunities while geopolitical tensions rise. The company hired experienced advocates to navigate partisan divisions on Arctic issues. Success depends on capitalizing on bipartisan Arctic cooperation support while addressing environmental opposition.
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