AxIntelligence

AxAdvocacy President Ashlee Rich Stephenson joined SiriusXM POTUS to break down why all eyes are on Texas, and why they’ll stay there through November. There is a lot of coverage on Texas that will not end tomorrow, it won't end in 10 weeks, it's going to take us all the way to the November general election. Why is that? Democrats desperately want to start to flip this state to make it blue for an electoral college advantage. Republicans know they need to hang on to it, because it doesn't look like a California, for example, is going to come back their way anytime soon. This will be a political science textbook, of primaries, runoffs, and then a really big general election. Watch the full interview:

Congratulations to Senior Vice President Jeff Billman on one year at AxAdvocacy! Below, he shares his perspective on the shift from Capitol Hill to a multi-client lobbying firm.

Special elections are special, simply put. In the Texas race, the jungle primary produced a Republican majority when two GOP candidates collectively won over half the vote. But that advantage didn’t carry through to the runoff, where an enthusiasm gap led Democrats to over-perform in the turnout game. The takeaway: in off-cycle elections, turnout dynamics can matter more than territory. Listen to AxAdvocacy Preside nt Ashlee Rich Stephenson break down what we learned from the Texas special runoff. Watch the interview:

Our healthcare policy expert, Kelly McElhaney, breaks down how HHS oversight, FDA guidance, and national biotechnology strategy will reshape regulatory expectations and what innovators need to do now to stay ahead.

Big infrastructure decisions are coming fast in 2026. Our resident expert Jack Ruddy explains what’s next—from funding fights to major transportation legislation.

President Ashlee Rich Stephenson joins SiriusXM POTUS to break down the early outlook for the 2026 midterm elections and the battle for control of Congress. "The words of last year and probably still again this year, Steve, are going to be mid-decade redistricting. I think Republicans are going to end up netting out maybe three or four seats overall when it's all said and done." Watch the interview:

President Ashlee Rich Stephenson joined SiriusXM POTUS this morning to discuss President Trump's speech, the Affordable Care Act, and Republican strategy heading into the midterms. "The path to a strong midterm showing runs through President Trump’s base, and that’s exactly who this speech was designed to activate.” Watch the interview:

Here is the latest redistricting update based on recent events and projections for the new year, not taking into consideration potential dynamic shifts, such as the outcome in the Voting Rights Act cases that may impact redistricting in several other states. Virginia Democrats have taken the first step toward a constitutional amendment that will allow them to overturn the state's non-partisan redistricting commission. In order to do so, the legislature will need to pass the amendment again in the new year and then voters will have their say via referendum in the Spring or Summer. In Florida, Governor DeSantis confirmed that a redistricting effort would take place in the new year. The Florida constitution bans partisan redistricting, so any new map would be subject to challenges, but the state Supreme Court has previously been deferential to the legislature in redistricting matters. Governor JB Pritzker in Illinois has expressed an openness to redistricting, as requested by national Democrats including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, but to date no concrete steps have been taken. If Illinois elects to redraw its map, it would require moving the 2026 primary to later in the year as filing deadlines have already passed.

Congratulations to AxAdvocacy Principal Bobby Babcock on being named one of The Hill’s Top Lobbyists for 2025! Bobby’s exceptional leadership, strategic insight, and results-driven advocacy on behalf of a diverse portfolio of clients make this recognition well deserved. We’re proud to celebrate his impact and continued contributions to our clients and the industry. The Hill Top Lobbyist List: https://thehill.com/homenews/5632709-top-lobbyists-2025/

All eyes are on Tennessee’s 7th Congressional District today as voters brave the elements and holiday slump to head to the polls in the special election to replace Fmr. Rep. Mark Green. AxAdvocacy President Ashlee Rich Stephenson joined SiriusXM POTUS to unpack the turnout warning signs and what Republicans eyeing 2026 should pay attention to from today’s results. Watch the interview:

Every year, as our country pauses to reflect on Veterans Day, I think about the history and meaning behind this solemn day. Originally established as Armistice Day to mark the end of World War I on November 11, 1918, it later evolved into Veterans Day, a day we honor American servicemembers of every generation who have sworn to defend our country. For me, this day means a great deal. As an Army Veteran who served as an Infantry Officer in Afghanistan and Iraq, I often receive a "Thank you for your service." I genuinely appreciate the sentiment, yet I hesitate in how to respond. It was an honor to serve, and I will be forever grateful to have worn the uniform. I am grateful that my years in uniform shaped the person I am today. I learned valuable lessons in leadership and followership; how to build, inspire, and support teams; and the importance of values such as duty, integrity, respect, and selfless service. Those experiences, responsibilities, and perspectives have guided me throughout my civilian career and in my personal life. Most importantly, I am forever grateful for the lifelong friendships forged while serving, bonds strengthened through shared mission, values, hardship, and, oftentimes, humor. It is also important to note that the sacrifices were not solely with the veteran. To the spouses, children, parents, and loved ones who stood behind us, carried the weight at home, and supported their service members through deployments, moves, uncertainty, and long separations, you also served. Our service would not have been possible without your strength and sacrifice. To all who have served, and to the families who served alongside them, a big thank you! Today, we honor your commitment, your sacrifice, and your enduring contribution to our great nation.  Happy Veterans Day!