Shawn Smeallie

Shawn Smeallie founded ACG Advocacy in 1994, bringing his extensive experience on Capitol Hill, the Executive Branch, and in the private sector to the firm. His knowledge of the regulatory and legislative process over the course of his 35 years in Washington, D.C. provides the firm and its clients with an invaluable resource.

Mr. Smeallie manages the firm’s financial services practice, but also has significant experience on defense, trade, energy, tax, and environmental issues.  He also manages several coalitions, the most recent of which, the Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity, was instrumental in passing landmark legislation to bring anti-doping reform into horse racing.

Prior to starting ACG Advocacy, Mr. Smeallie served as a Special Assistant to President Bush for Legislative Affairs from 1990 to 1993. As a Commissioned Officer of the President, he coordinated the efforts of policymakers on Capitol Hill and constituent organizations to develop and implement the Administration’s legislative strategies. He also served in the Bush/Cheney transition team, assisting with nominees during the confirmation process.

From 1989 to 1990, Mr. Smeallie was Special Assistant to the Director for Legislative Affairs at the Office of Management and Budget in the Executive Office of the President. While at OMB, he worked closely with the Budget and Appropriation Committees of Congress.

Before joining the Bush Administration, Mr. Smeallie was the National Security Advisor to U.S. Senator Alfonse D’Amato of New York. While there, he was the Senator’s representative on the Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense and Foreign Operations.

Mr. Smeallie has an undergraduate degree from St. Lawrence University and a Masters Degree in National Security Studies from Georgetown University.  He serves on the Humane Society’s National Horse Racing Advisory Council.  He is active in many organizations, including The Jackie Robinson Foundation, where he serves on the board, the Friends of the Adirondacks, and the Lumen Institute, where he was a past president.