Major federal lobbying firms reported record-breaking revenues for the second quarter of 2026, according to recent federal disclosures. Firms such as Ballard Partners, BGR Group, and Akin reported significant year-over-year growth, with Ballard Partners seeing a 61.1% increase to $33.2 million and BGR Group rising 23% to $21.8 million. Total federal lobbying spending exceeded $5 billion last year and reached $1.4 billion through late April of this year, according to data from OpenSecrets.
Lobbying representatives attributed the rise in revenue to increased activity regarding trade, defense, and energy policies. Brian Pomper of Akin noted that the administration's use of executive authority, such as adjustments to aluminum tariffs based on domestic investment, has led companies to seek more representation. Additionally, firms reported high demand related to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a recurring piece of legislation that frequently serves as a vehicle for various policy measures.
Industry analysts also pointed to the upcoming November midterm elections as a factor in the spending increase. Representatives from BGR Group and Cornerstone Government Affairs stated that clients are currently engaged in scenario-planning to prepare for potential shifts in congressional leadership. Federal law requires lobbying practices to disclose these revenue figures quarterly.