USLege · Best in Government Affairs · Texas
Kate Goodrich
Partner, Public Policy and Law practice, K&L Gates
Kate Goodrich, Partner, Public Policy and Law practice at K&L Gates, is a 2026 Best in Government Affairs Texas honoree in the Rising Stars of the Year category. The awards are peer-nominated.
Kate Goodrich has quickly become one of the most respected new advocates in Texas government affairs. Known for her intellect, authenticity, and fearless command of complex policy. A licensed attorney and contract lobbyist with Holland & Knight, Kate brings a rare mix of legal depth and legislative experience that makes her a go-to resource for clients and colleagues alike.
“Kate is amazing to work with because she’s sharp, no-nonsense, and genuine,” one nominator wrote. “Her legal and policy depth is unmatched and she’s a huge supporter of other women.” Another added, “Kate is one of the smartest, most authentic, hardest working, and resourceful lobbyists in the business.”
A double Longhorn, Kate earned both her undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Texas at Austin, along with a Master’s in Global Politics from Trinity College Dublin, where she studied on a Rotary International scholarship. Before returning to Austin for law school, she spent three years as a federally registered lobbyist in Washington, D.C. Her Texas experience includes serving in three Senate committee offices, Natural Resources, Finance, and Health & Human Services, and as Deputy General Counsel and Policy Advisor to House Speaker Dade Phelan.
Kate’s combination of legal precision, political insight, and genuine character has made her one of the Capitol’s most trusted emerging voices.
As one of this year’s Rising Stars of the Year, Kate Goodrich represents the intellect, drive, and authenticity that define the next generation of leaders in Texas government affairs.
More Rising Stars of the Year honorees.
Track the Texas Legislature the way honorees do.
USLege covers every Texas bill, hearing, and floor debate with live video, transcripts, and cited AI answers. See why the people on this page use it.