(WASHINGTON) – Cornerstone Government Affairs today announced the addition of Michael Falencki, former Deputy Staff Director of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, to its federal government relations team. With more than 22 years of experience, Falencki will leverage his policy expertise and relationships in D.C. to assist clients in advancing their legislative objectives within transportation, commerce, financial services, appropriations and engineering, among others.
“We are thrilled with the addition of Michael and what is sure to be an immediate positive impact on behalf of our clients,” Cornerstone CEO Geoff Gonella said. “He brings an excellent reputation, broad and diverse relationships and significant subject matter expertise in key areas of growth for our firm.”
Most recently, Falencki served as Deputy Staff Director for the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where he led the legislative strategy and implementation for six subcommittees and was responsible for executing Full Committee hearings and markups. In addition, Falencki coordinated with Leadership and other Committees to advance major bills while managing the Committee’s staff, budget and key performance indicators.
From 2019 to 2022, Falencki also served as Staff Director at the House Transportation and Infrastructure, Subcommittees on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials/Highways and Transit. In this role, he developed and wrote the alternative Surface Transportation bill (STARTER Act), drafted the Pipeline Safety Reauthorization bill and executed internal and external stakeholder outreach activities.
Prior to joining the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, Falencki served from 2001 to 2006 in Rep. Sam Graves’ (R-MO) office in the roles of Legislative Assistant, Legislative Director and Deputy Chief of Staff, where he functioned as the lead policy expert in sectors including transportation/infrastructure, financial services, healthcare, appropriations, energy, education, agriculture and telecommunications, crafting and implementing the Congressman’s legislative agenda.
“I am excited and honored to join Cornerstone’s industry-leading team,” Falencki said. “During my time in the House, I was impressed with Cornerstone’s commitment to representing clients with diligence, creativity and integrity. I look forward to using my skills and experience to further add value to the firm across the transportation space and strategically position clients to successfully navigate Washington.”
Falencki has also held several private sector roles throughout his career, including Director of Operations Risk and Regulatory Control for Global Operations at Morgan Stanley.
Falencki graduated from Yale University with a bachelor’s degree in history.