The Hill, a prominent political newspaper, has once again recognized the Big “I," naming Bob Rusbuldt, Big “I" president & CEO, and Charles Symington, Big “I" executive vice president, among the top trade association lobbyists in Washington, D.C. this year.

As in previous years, the Big “I" was the only property-casualty insurance agent or broker group to make the list.

In its announcement, The Hill stated the criteria for the recognition. “Not all of those on this list are registered lobbyists," the newspaper reported with its list. “But they all demonstrated a track record of success in the halls of Congress and the administration during a critical year for policy." The publication noted that lobbyists were instrumental in bringing a sharply divided Congress together to shape an avalanche of legislation this year. 

“The Big 'I' is proud to have our president & CEO and executive vice president recognized by one of the premier political newspapers in the country," says John Costello, Big “I" chairman and senior vice president at USI Insurance Services in Rochester, New York. “As the Big 'I' prepares for a leadership transition with Rusbuldt retiring next year and Symington taking on the role of president & CEO, this recognition is a testament that the association's advocacy excellence on behalf of its members will continue in very capable hands. We are grateful for the hard work of the entire government affairs team, whose dedication results in our association being named among the most influential in the country time and again."

A vital component of the association's advocacy efforts is InsurPac, the multi million-dollar political action committee (PAC) of the Big “I." It develops and strengthens relationships with elected officials and candidates for federal office, amplifying the Big “I" brand on Capitol Hill.

AnneMarie McPherson Spears is IA news editor.