Washington, DC – Cornerstone Government Affairs announced Tuesday the addition of Keith Stern, former Senior Advisor to Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA), to its federal government relations team. With more than a decade of experience working with Democratic House Leadership, Stern brings a deep understanding of House Floor processes and strong relationships across all levels of the federal government.
“After nearly three decades on Capitol Hill, I’m excited to bring my expertise working with Democrats and Republicans to navigate congressional politics, policy and procedure to Cornerstone,” Stern said. “I’m looking forward to working with this talented team to help our clients build meaningful relationships and achieve their policy priorities.”
In his most recent role as Senior Advisor to the Democratic Whip, Stern advised on major issues facing the House of Representatives and the Democratic Caucus, working with the Policy Director and policy staff to analyze and formulate domestic and international policy. In addition, Stern assisted the Floor Director on legislative and floor processes, including crafting legislation to help avert the debt limit crisis; legislation funding both the government and the appropriations process; as well as floor processes including all the various Speaker’s elections and votes in 2023.
Prior to this role, Stern served as the Director of Floor Operations for the Democratic Leader and former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), advising Democratic Leadership on floor operations strategy and policy development. As part of this, Stern worked closely with Democratic and Republican Chairs and Ranking Members, as well as with the White House and Senate leadership staff to enact meaningful legislation including the American Rescue Plan, the Inflation Reduction Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the CHIPS and Science Act, as well as multiple responses to the COVID pandemic, along with important structural reforms in the House of Representatives.
From 2013-2015, Stern also served as Chief of Staff and Rules Associate for Rep. James McGovern (D-MA), developing and managing strategic communication, district outreach and legislative plans.
“We are thrilled to welcome Keith to the team. He brings a wealth of experience, expertise and bipartisan relationships to the firm,” Cornerstone CEO Geoff Gonella said. “His knowledge of House leadership and floor operations will add immediate and significant value to all our client engagements.”
Stern received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Allegheny College.