Message from New NILE President Larry Gonzalez

Happy New Year! As we begin 2026, I want to thank you for the work you do every day to strengthen our democracy through advocacy. Lobbying is not easy work, nor should it be. It requires integrity, resilience, and a deep commitment to ensuring that policymakers hear informed, ethical, and representative voices.

This year arrives at a moment of both challenge and opportunity for our profession. Public trust, regulatory scrutiny, and rapid political change demand that we continue to raise the bar for how lobbying is practiced and understood. I believe firmly that this moment calls for leadership and for unity around our shared values.

As the voice of our industry, NILE's agenda for 2026 is clear:

• Elevating standards and ethics across the profession, with expanded education, guidance, and accountability.

• Investing in professional development, ensuring lobbyists at every stage of their career have access to practical tools and credible credentials.

• Defending the legitimacy of lobbying by telling our story more effectively—to policymakers, the media, and the public.

• Broadening participation and representation within our field so advocacy better reflects the communities and interests it seeks to serve.

• Strengthening our community, creating more opportunities for connection, mentorship, and shared problem-solving.

Above all, NILE will continue to be a steady voice for lobbyists who practice their work with honesty and purpose.

I am optimistic about the year ahead, not because it will be easy, but because this community has consistently shown it can adapt, lead, and set the standard for ethical advocacy. Thank you for your commitment to this profession and for your partnership in the year to come.

I look forward to working with you throughout 2026.

With appreciation,

Larry Gonzalez

President, National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics

---