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Sacramento, California – Nielsen Merksamer, a law firm specializing in political and government law, litigation and advocacy, today announced the promotions of Jay Carson to partner and Victoria Rodriguez to associate.

“Jay Carson brings a depth of legal experience in guiding clients through complex issues ranging from ballot measures and election law to property rights and campaign compliance,” said Jason Kaune. “His promotion to a partner in the firm is a natural next step to ensure Nielsen Merksamer continues its successful growth trajectory as a top nationally recognized political law firm.”

As a partner in the firm’s Bay Area office, Mr. Carson advises corporations, non-profit organizations, trade associations, political committees, and individuals about campaign finance, lobbying disclosure and ethics laws at every level of government. He works closely with a diversity of clients across the regulated community to develop sophisticated nationwide compliance programs and has successfully guided clients through difficult ethics investigations and audits. He serves as legal counsel, treasurer and strategic advisor to political, tax exempt and ballot measures organizations. He also has experience representing transportation industry clients in proceedings before the California Public Utilities Commission and other agencies.

“The promotion of Victoria Rodriguez from legislative analyst to associate in the firm’s government law practice is extremely well deserved,” said John Moffatt. “Her expertise on complex legislative and regulatory matters is a value-add to Nielsen Merksamer clients – ensuring that they’re receiving thoughtful and strategic guidance to navigate California’s complex legislative, regulatory and political environment.”

Prior to becoming an associate, Mrs. Rodriguez served Nielsen Merksamer clients as a legislative analyst. In this role, she tracked legislative and regulatory matters and actively lobbied in the state Capitol and at administrative agencies for a broad range of clients including local governments, nonprofits, and private corporations. Before joining the firm, Mrs. Rodriguez worked as a regulatory advocate for the California Cattlemen’s Foundation, a nonprofit organization that advocates for the interests of California ranchers. In this position, she became familiar with the California regulatory process and advocated at several state agencies including the California Air Resources Board, the State Water Resources Control Board, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and the California Environmental Protection Agency.

For full bios and head shots, please visit www.nmgovlaw.com or call (916) 446-6752.