July 8, 2019

Cornerstone Government Affairs Adds Senate Defense Expert

Will Todd, Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense staffer, joins the firm on July 8

(WASHINGTON) – Cornerstone Government Affairs, a leading, bipartisan public affairs firm with federal and state reach, announced that Will Todd joins the firm as a Senior Vice President on July 8. Will most recently served on the Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense as professional staff.

On the Defense Subcommittee, Will served as a majority budget analyst responsible for the strategic direction and oversight of more than $50 billion in annual Department of Defense (DoD) appropriations accounts. Additionally, Will’s role included being the lead professional staff member for the Navy’s shipbuilding and conversion programs, U.S. Special Operations Command, U.S. Cyber Command, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, and the Strategic Capabilities Office. Prior to his work on the Subcommittee, Will served as Deputy Legislative Director and Military Legislative Assistant for Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS). He also worked as a legislative assistant to Sen. Cochran and has 12 years of experience on Capitol Hill.

“We are thrilled to welcome someone with Will’s capabilities, reputation and experience to Cornerstone. He will immediately add to our significant appropriations expertise and bolster our growing National Security and Defense practices,” said Cornerstone President and Managing Director, Geoff Gonella. “Will is well respected and immediately adds depth and breadth to our service offerings. His addition will be of great value to our team.”

“I am excited to join the team at Cornerstone Government Affairs. The firm has an impressive reputation on Capitol Hill for representing its clients with expertise and professionalism, and the knowledge I’ve gained working for the Senate Appropriations Committee and with Senator Cochran will add value to the already strong offerings of the firm,” said Will Todd. “I particularly look forward to continuing to focus on strengthening our national security by helping our clients collaborate with the government in support of our nation’s defense. I believe my skill set will contribute to future successes for the firm, its clients, and our military as we work toward a common goal.”

Will is the third recent hire made by Cornerstone in the area of national security. Last month the firm added Connie LaRossa, former senior Department of Homeland Security official, and prior to that, Victoria Marum, former congressional liaison officer for the United States Navy.