Political contributions play a significant role in lobbying by providing AIA Virginia with access to lawmakers. Through contributions from our nonpartisan PAC AIA Virginia is able to attend a wide variety of political fundraisers. Attendance at these events strengthens our relationships with legislators and allows us to educate lawmakers on how architects are licensed, the role architecture plays in our society, and how architectural services are procured.
Political contributions are also a signal to lawmakers conveying the strength and seriousness of our commitment to the profession and the public policy making process. In the early days of my lobbying career one of my mentors, former Delegate Bill Axselle, told me the following: “Before they listen to you they need to trust you. Before they trust you, they need to get to know you.” The AIA Virginia PAC is a critical tool that helps us “get to know” lawmakers and gives them the opportunity to “get to know” AIA Virginia. Thank you all for your dedication to your profession and continued support of the AIA Virginia PAC.
Patrick Cushing
Principal, Fall Line Strategies