Bio-sketch for Judy Augenstein

People hire lobbyists because they need to activate the political system.  My job is to educate legislators about clients and their issues. The legislative process may seem frustrating and disappointing and can appear to be complex. The system is set up to facilitate input from people and groups so it can take some time to bring about change.  The lobbyist is the middle person between the client and legislators who can provide credibility, thus open doors that might otherwise remain closed.  Effective lobbying is achieved through credibility. Credibility can only be earned and is the key element in getting a clients story told and supported. The five basic elements to lobbying are fact finding, monitoring, lobbying, credibility and access.

Lobbying was far from my mind while I grew up in the picturesque town of Grand Ledge west of Lansing. One of five children, I spent most of my adolescent years with an aunt and uncle. It was my uncle's interest in politics which spurred my interest in politics. While attending college with the goal of becoming a teacher, I kept being drawn to politics. At age 21, I ran for precinct delegate and won. I worked for Republican State Central and then for various Republican Senate leaders.  

I established the first female legislative consulting business in 1978.  I am proud of the fact that I have developed positive working relationships with both Republicans and Democrats.  I have represented various special interest groups and have been successful with legislative efforts put before the legislature on their behalf.  I continue to live in Grand Ledge with my retired husband, Dewaine Gee.  My daughter Andrea and granddaughter live a few miles away.  My daughter Andrea has worked part time in my business since she was in high school.  I look forward to teaching my granddaughter the same work ethic and the possibility of her entering my business.