Impact – June 2023

It’s harder and harder to figure out who is going to emerge from the DeSantis-Disney struggle looking better than before this quarrel started or how, if ever, it will end. The best that can be hoped for at this point is what we might learn from it. Our experts weigh in.

Republicans and Democrats seem determined to “gift” the presidential race to each other. From scrutiny about Biden’s faculties to Trump’s legal issues and poor track record with independents, Nathan Gonzales frames out what the field looks like with both sides poised to nominate the “weakest candidate possible.”

For some companies, having their political activity evaluated by the CPA-Zicklin Index can be intimidating; for others, it’s exhilarating. But as the number of companies being rated continues to expand, it’s important to know what to expect, how much weight to give the index, and what level of compliance makes sense.

PepsiCo’s director of government affairs and corporate citizenship discusses her career trajectory and why PepsiCo considers itself “a playground for curious people.” Plus, Lustig shares insights into her time studying in Cambodia and co-writing a book about public service with other young women she worked with in the Obama White House.

PAC contributions have a broader impact than you might think. Researchers at the University of Maryland studied the effects of PAC donations and what members say on the floor of Congress. Learn how and why PACs are influencing speeches.

Public affairs professionals are on the move. With new roles at BP, Discover Financial Services, Metlife and American Property Casualty Insurance Association, to name a few, see what your peers are up to and where they’re landing.