James Brandell, Andrew Buczek, and Mary Beth McGowan Named 2024 “Top Lobbyist” by The Hill

Dykema, a leading national law firm, proudly announces that James Brandell, Ph.D., Andrew Buczek, and Mary Beth McGowan were named 2024 “Top Lobbyist” by The Hill.

According to The Hill, the “Top Lobbyist” honorees are “some of the best in the business and have been go-to advocates during a year defined by unprecedented political events, legislative logjams, and federal spending cut crusades.”

As the head of Dykema’s federal government relations team, Dr. James Brandell has a proven track record of advancing important issues through the legislative process. He has strong professional relationships across both parties. Before his time with Dykema, Brandell served as Chief of Staff to Ways and Means Chairman Dave Camp for over a decade. He also served as deputy chief of staff to Michigan Governor John Engler and has spent significant time working on congressional and presidential campaigns.

Andrew Buczek has over 20 years of experience developing federal legislative, regulatory, and political strategies for clients across industries. Before joining Dykema, he served as a senior legislative assistant to Congressman Jim Barcia, advising on science and technology policy. Buczek has played key roles in numerous national political campaigns and conventions. His practice spans appropriations, tax, transportation, housing, and economic development, and he is a member of Dykema’s Political Action Committee Board.

In her work with the firm, Mary Beth McGowan works with local governments, nonprofit organizations, and corporations to understand their goals and help them navigate Congress and federal agencies. She also helps clients identify funding opportunities and makes key contacts throughout the federal government. McGowan has experience working on issues related to transportation, cybersecurity, electric power and energy, environmental policy, telecommunications, the appropriations process, and federal budgetary matters.