USLege · Best in Government Affairs · Texas
Top Hired Gun Lobbyists
The contract lobbyists Texas trusts most, chosen by their peers, not paid for placement.
When people ask who the best lobbyists in Texas are, they are really asking who gets results at the Capitol, who legislators trust, who clients call first, and who can move a bill when it matters most.
The USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards answer that question the only way that counts: through the nominations of the people who work alongside them. The honorees below are Texas's Top Hired Gun Lobbyists of the Year for 2026, the contract lobbyists whose strategy, relationships, and consistent wins set the standard for government relations across the state.
Every name here was chosen by peers, and there is no cost to be featured. Explore their profiles, see the firms they represent, and get a feel for the professionals shaping Texas policy from the inside.
Top Hired Gun Lobbyists of the Year
Holly DeShields
About the best lobbyists in Texas.
Who is the best lobbyist in Texas?
There is no single answer, but the professionals recognized as Top Hired Gun Lobbyists of the Year in the 2026 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards are among the most respected contract lobbyists in the state, chosen by their peers for their results, relationships, and reputation at the Capitol.
How are the best lobbyists in Texas chosen?
Entirely through peer nomination. There is no cost to nominate or be featured, and final selections reflect the strength and volume of nominations received.
What is a hired gun lobbyist?
A hired gun, or contract lobbyist, is retained by outside clients to advocate for their interests before the legislature and state agencies, as opposed to an in-house lobbyist who works for a single organization.
Can I nominate someone for Top Hired Gun Lobbyists of the Year next year?
Yes. The 2027 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards will be announced next year, and there is never a cost to nominate or be featured. Nominations carry more weight when they come from a peer who has worked with the nominee directly.
Where can I see all the 2026 Texas Best in Government Affairs honorees?
The full list of every 2026 category winner is on the Texas Best in Government Affairs Awards page, searchable by name or firm.
Explore the other Texas categories.
The 2026 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards recognize Texas honorees across eight categories. Browse them all, or see the complete list on the Texas page.
See all 89 Texas honorees.
These are the Top Hired Gun Lobbyists. Explore every peer-nominated professional recognized in the 2026 USLege Best in Government Affairs Awards for Texas.