Top 10 Federal Lobbying Firms
[See our full list of top-performing lobbying firms, plus data on revenue growth, client retention, and other key metrics. Download the free 2026 Top Lobbying Firms report.]
The pathways to policy influence are shifting rapidly. With a record-breaking $5.3 billion spent on federal lobbying in 2025, the industry reached unprecedented heights. Organizations across the globe recognize that having a voice in Washington is no longer optional, but a critical driver of business success.
Lobbyists play an essential role in shaping legislation, regulations, and policies, representing a bridge between organizations and government.
This guide breaks down the defining trends of the past year, the core areas of expertise driving revenue growth, and the shifting power dynamics among leading U.S. lobbying firms.
[Exclusive report: See which lobbying firms drove record industry growth. Download our 2026 Top Lobbying Firms report for the full list.]
Lobbying expenditures hit record highs
Lobbying activity in 2025 shattered previous benchmarks. Driven by new policy priorities, major tax debates, and sweeping trade initiatives, total federal lobbying spending hit an all-time high of $5.3 billion.
Corporations and industry groups spent heavily to ensure their voices were heard, shelling out $2.84 billion specifically to hire external lobbying firms. This represents a massive 26% jump over 2024 levels.
Organizations clearly see the return on investment when they partner with expert firms capable of cutting through the noise in Washington.
Line graph showing the increase in lobbying spending from $3.2 billion in 2015 to $5.3 billion in 2025.
Top lobbying firms by revenue
These firms emerged as the biggest players in the lobbying landscape in terms of revenue, influence, and results.
1. Ballard Partners LLC
Revenue: $88.2 million
2. Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP
Revenue: $73.9 million
3. BGR Government Affairs LLC
Revenue: $71.2 million
4. Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP
Revenue: $65.4 million
5. Cornerstone Government Affairs Inc.
Revenue: $55.8 million
6. Holland & Knight LLP
Revenue: $55.1 million
7. Miller Strategies LLC
Revenue: $51.2 million
8. Invariant LLC
Revenue: $47.1 million
9. Thorn Run Partners
Revenue: $32.4 million
10. Cassidy & Associates Inc.
Revenue: $30.6 million
[Exclusive report: Explore which lobbying firms are leading influence and performance. Download our 2026 Top-Performing Lobbying Firms report.]
Key developments that shaped lobbying in 2025
Lobbying rarely occurs in a vacuum. Here are some notable trends and events that shaped the landscape this past year:
The Trump connection: Connections to President Trump and his circle were crucial for success, significantly influencing lobbying outcomes.
Shift to the White House and key executive agencies: Lobbying of the White House rose more than 70% and agency activity jumped significantly.
Congressional focus: Despite the shift to the executive branch, both chambers of Congress remained the top lobbied entities.
Preparing for a congressional shift: Anticipation of Democrats potentially reclaiming the House in 2027 suggests a future shift back to Congress for lobbying efforts.
[Exclusive report: Gain insight into key policy areas that are driving influence in Washington by downloading our free Top-Performing Lobbying Firms report.]
Key issues driving lobbying today
The massive $5.3 billion spend did not happen by accident. Specific legislative and regulatory battles compelled organizations across multiple sectors to ramp up their advocacy efforts.
Chart showing the issues that saw the largest percent increase in lobbying spend in 2025, including trade, tax, manufacturing, defense, and healthcare.
Legislation on Medicare drug pricing and pharmacy benefit management transparency continues to drive advocacy spending. Firms are also working on FDA regulations affecting new pharmaceutical drugs and medical devices.
Technology and AI
AI remains a priority in Congress, with bipartisan working groups addressing ethical concerns, workforce displacement, and national security implications. Lobbyists are positioning themselves as critical advisors on how to integrate responsible AI frameworks.
Cryptocurrency and blockchain regulation
Growing scrutiny over cryptocurrency exchanges such as FTX has prompted Congress to explore comprehensive regulations in blockchain technology and digital assets. Lobbyists are focused on shaping a balance between innovation and accountability.
Environmental policies
Energy independence and climate change legislation remain hot topics. Lobbying in support of renewable energy tax credits and emerging carbon-capture technologies is crucial for securing sustainable growth in the sector.
Unlock government affairs success with Bloomberg Government
The top-performing lobbying firms thrive because they possess expertise, adaptability, and a keen understanding of their clients’ challenges. Whether it’s navigating complex federal regulations, advocating for social policies, or influencing issues at the forefront of innovation, having the right partner is key.
Bloomberg Government helps lobbying firms and corporate public affairs teams turn insight into influence. Our all-in-one platform enables you to track policy developments, connect with key decision-makers, and act with confidence in a rapidly shifting legislative landscape.
With real-time legislative and regulatory tracking, expert analysis, and powerful workflow tools, BGOV cuts through information overload – so you can focus on advancing your clients’ and organization’s policy priorities.
Lobbyists and corporate government affairs professionals rely on Bloomberg Government to:
- Track what matters most with real-time alerts, AI-powered bill summaries, and comprehensive federal and state policy monitoring—so you never miss a critical development.
- Strategize with confidence using expert news, policy analysis, and data-driven insights to anticipate changes, uncover opportunities, and align advocacy with policy direction.
- Deliver impact by connecting with the right stakeholders through up-to-date directories, detailed legislator profiles, and tools that help you craft and execute targeted outreach.
Request a demo to see how Bloomberg Government equips you to stay proactive helping you strengthen relationships, influence outcomes, and drive measurable results.
Recommended for you