July 7, 2022

Cornerstone Government Affairs Expands National Security Capabilities with Addition of Christian Walker

Former advisor to Defense Appropriations Committee member Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-AZ) joins firm

Cornerstone Government Affairs today announced the addition of Christian Walker to its federal government relations team as a vice president. Walker, a subject matter expert in national security and defense appropriations, joins Cornerstone from the office of Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-AZ), where he served for more than three years as deputy chief of staff and legislative director.

Throughout his time working for Rep. Kirkpatrick, Walker managed D.C.-based and legislative staff activity while serving as the lead advisor for the Congresswoman on the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, developing relationships with leadership, committees, member offices, industry partners, and national security representatives. Walker also advised the Congresswoman on intelligence, cyber, national security, and Department of Defense medical research matters, in addition to efforts across all appropriations priorities for the office.

“It’s an honor to join Cornerstone and work alongside the firm’s esteemed team of professionals, whose creativity and broad expertise across the federal and state governments have been adding value and delivering results for the firm’s clients for twenty years,” Walker said. “Cornerstone has a stellar reputation because of its talented teams, commitment to high ethical standards, collaborative approach, and innovative business philosophy. I look forward to bringing my appropriations, legislative, and political experience to Cornerstone.”

In addition to his work on Capitol Hill, Walker also possesses extensive experience with political campaigns, having worked on multiple elections with Rep. Kirkpatrick in competitive, bipartisan districts. He also served as a senior advisor for a U.S. Senate Campaign, campaign manager for a nationally-targeted U.S. House of Representatives race and as the statewide field director for the Arizona Democratic Party.

“We are thrilled to welcome Christian to our team,” Geoff Gonella, Cornerstone president and managing director, said. “He will immediately add value to our firm and its clients. He brings a broad and diverse background, set of capabilities and relationships as well as an excellent reputation.”