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David Bernhardt Launches The Bernhardt Group, a Strategic Advisory and Government Affairs Firm

June 3, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Former U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt today announced the launch of The Bernhardt Group, a strategic advisory and government affairs firm based in Washington, D.C.

Drawing on decades of experience at the highest levels of federal government policymaking, the firm is focused on advising leaders navigating significant challenges and opportunities presented by the dynamic policy changes that are occurring at the federal level- regulatory, legislative and enforcement.


“We are 134 days into President Trump’s historic second term. The opportunity to shape lasting policy and regulatory outcomes is unprecedented, but the clock is ticking,” David Bernhardt, Founder and Chairman, said. “Our team at The Bernhardt Group includes senior appointees and trusted advisers from President Trump’s first term. We know how this administration moves– because we helped move it before. I believe our experience at that level of government gives us unmatched insight into how to maximize opportunities for our clients.”


“This is an operation driven by deeply experienced advisors and policy architects who have had their perspective forged by tested leadership and actual tactical execution.”  


In addition, “given the indelible role Norm Brownstein has played throughout the last three decades of my life, our group will continue to collaborate and be strategic partners with the Brownstein firm on a host of important matters going forward,” Bernhardt said.


The firm’s founding partners are longtime collaborators and trusted conservative strategists who have helped shape national policy across administrations:


  • Jon Hrobsky – Former Deputy Director for Policy and Planning, U.S. Minerals Management Service, former Deputy Director of the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs at the  U.S. Department of the Interior, senior congressional advisor

  • Cole Rojewski – Former Chief of Staff to the House Appropriations Chair; former Director of Congressional & Legislative Affairs, U.S. Department of the Interior

  • Bill McGrath – Legal and policy strategist with experience in Congress and advocacy organizations

  • Todd Willens – Former Chief of Staff, U.S. Department of the Interior; senior congressional advisor

  • Luke Johnson – Former Deputy Director of Policy & Programs, Bureau of Land Management; federal permitting and land-use expert


“We launched this firm because we intimately understand how decisions get made and how to turn that insight into a strategic advantage,” Cole Rojewski, Partner, said. “We’ve written the policies, managed the operations, and delivered results. Now, we are bringing our experience to the private sector to help companies better understand Washington.” 


“Washington is more complex and consequential than ever,” Jon Hrobsky, Partner, said. “From regulatory reversals to new agency mandates, this administration has proven to be unapologetically focused on transformation. Clients need partners who are already fluent in the Trump administration and Congress’ language. That’s exactly what we offer.”


In addition to the founding partners, The Bernhardt Group includes a broader leadership team of senior advisors, communicators, and strategists:


  • Kate Gonzales – Vice President

  • Faith Vander Voort – Vice President of Public Affairs

  • Samantha Hebert – Senior Advisor

  • Phoebe Miner – Director of Operations and Administration


The Bernhardt Group provides high-level advisory services, counsel, and execution across several key areas. This includes strategic guidance and experienced policy advocacy within both executive branch agencies and Congress. The team also offers deep expertise in navigating federal regulations and managing risk, ensuring clients stay ahead of bureaucratic and legal challenges.


The firm works across a range of sectors including energy, infrastructure, technology, appropriations, supply chains and natural resources, offering clients strategic solutions at the nexus of policy, regulation and politics. The firm also provides specialized guidance on congressional oversight, federal permitting and executive branch engagement. 


To learn more, visit bernhardtgroup.com. Interested media can contact info@bernhardtgroup.com


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