Zac Commins brings a decade of experience working on federal policy, funding, and regulatory matters to Carpi & Clay. With previous roles spanning Capitol Hill and local government, Zac brings invaluable expertise in government relations, policy advocacy, and strategic counsel. His track record of effectively navigating complex political landscapes and building coalitions will make him instrumental in furthering Carpi & Clay’s commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients.
Zac most recently served as Executive Officer of Intergovernmental Affairs to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. In this role, he played a pivotal role in shaping the City’s advocacy agenda, fostering crucial partnerships across all levels of government, and aligning priorities with various City departments and offices. Zac led the Intergovernmental Affairs team’s efforts to maximize federal and state funding for the City, while facilitating advocacy trips, visits from dignitaries, large-scale policy events, and participation in national conferences.
As Economic and Transportation Policy Advisor to Senator Alex Padilla, Zac spearheaded several of the office’s signature legislative achievements, including central provisions incorporated in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. He co-led bipartisan efforts to successfully enact legislation to provide flexibility to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments in the use of billions of dollars in fiscal recovery funds. His extensive collaboration with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies and nonprofits, underscored his commitment to advancing a myriad of policy priorities, securing grant awards, and facilitating congressionally directed spending.
Zac started his career in Washington, DC as an aide to Congressman Eric Swalwell and later served as Legislative Director to former Congressman Harley Rouda. In these roles, he led the offices’ efforts on a broad range of policy matters, including economic development, emergency management, energy, environment, health care, housing, public safety, tax, and transportation.
Zac has prior experience providing comprehensive government affairs services to public sector and nonprofit clients. Zac graduated with honors from the University of California, Berkeley with a bachelor’s degree in political science.