Pressure Mounts as Nations Seek Trump-Connected Lobbyists Amid Changed Dynamics

Countries are increasingly engaging lobbyists with ties to the Trump administration following heightened tensions and shifts in U.S. policies under President Trump’s renewed leadership.

The Danish government, traditionally not a significant presence in Washington’s lobbying sphere, is among several nations hastily seeking lobbyists friendly to President Trump, particularly amid his ambitions regarding Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory. With Trump assuming office for a second term, Denmark’s embassy in Washington initiated the search for lobbyists ahead of his inauguration in January 2025.

This is not an isolated case. Multiple countries, aware of impending threats posed by Trump’s foreign policies—including potential acquisitions, tariffs, and changes in aid—are also actively looking for lobbying support. Just days before Trump's inauguration, Panama signed a contract estimated at nearly $2.5 million with a lobbying team led by David Urban of BGR Group, in response to Trump's remarks about the Panama Canal.

Moreover, Somalia's embassy secured a $600,000 lobbying contract with BGR Group to counteract fears of diminished military assistance under the new administration. Similarly, South Korea is reinforced its lobbying strategy, hiring former Trump campaign aide Bryan Lanza and his team at Mercury Public Affairs to mitigate potential damage from anticipated tariffs.

This surge in demand for lobbyists connected to Trump highlights the profound sense of uncertainty even among longstanding U.S. allies. Recent developments, such as the escalation of tensions with Colombia over tariffs and immigration policies, further underscore the volatility of the current geopolitical landscape under the Trump administration, compelling nations to seek strategic allies on K Street.