Ward and Smith, P.A. announced today that Jonathan Brooks is joining the firm's government relations team as a Senior Government Relations Advisor. He is a seasoned professional with more than 20 years of experience and will begin serving the firm's clients immediately. Brooks will help clients with state and federal government relations, and provide strategic government relations advice to clients.
Ward and Smith lobbies for clients facing state government and legislative and agency issues. The firm's government relations team helps clients shape and understand policies and actions in the legislative and executive branches. Ward and Smith is actively engaged in analyzing, drafting, and monitoring legislation in Congress and the North Carolina General Assembly.
Brooks will enhance Ward and Smith's already strong statewide presence and join a team comprised of attorneys, lobbyists, and professionals. Whitney Christensen, Jamie Norment, Hugh Overholt, and Sam Poole are key members of the team.
Angie Harris, the firm's Director of Government and Media Relations, recently announced her retirement. Harris was instrumental in building this presence when she joined the firm in 2012 after a successful career in North Carolina politics and government relations. "As the first director of the government relations practice at Ward and Smith, I am proud of the many things our team has accomplished." said Harris, reflecting upon her time at the firm. She continues, "The addition of Jonathan Brooks adds tremendous capability and enhances the team's strengths. Although I am retiring from my government relations practice, I know our clients are well-served and in good hands."
Overholt, a Ward and Smith attorney and policy advisor, said, "We have a great team positioned to help our clients address and lobby important issues. Jonathan adds bench strength with his knowledge and experience."
Brooks has served as a political finance consultant to U.S. Senators, The National Republican Senatorial Committee, the Republican Governors Association, and numerous independent expenditure efforts. Poole, a former Senior Policy Advisor and Chief of Staff to late U.S. Senator Terry Sanford, among other accomplishments, said, "We are delighted that Jonathan is coming on board. His prior experience in North Carolina politics and deep relationships are a winning combination."
Brooks is a native of Dunn, North Carolina and is a graduate of East Carolina University, holding a B.S. degree in Political Science and an M.A. in American History. He currently serves on the East Carolina University Board of Visitors and the North Carolina Historic Bath Commission.
