Powers Law is pleased to announce the growth in our Government Relations and Legislative practice. Effective February 1, 2026, Michael Barnett has been elevated to Counsel and Emma Gunter has been elevated to Manager, Government Relations. Both Michael and Emma bring expertise in developing and implementing government relations strategies and policies to protect and promote the clients’ interests.
Michael previously served as Director of Government Relations at Powers where he focused on passing priority legislation, shaping important regulatory and legislative proposals, and advancing significant federal initiatives within the Legislative and Administrative branches of the U.S. Federal Government. He is licensed to practice in Mississippi and, more recently, in the District of Columbia.
Emma previously served as a Legislative Project Assistant where she researched laws and policy issues, drafted summaries or background memos, and maintained compliance records.
ABOUT THE POWERS GOVERNMENT RELATIONS PRACTICE
The Powers Pyles Sutter & Verville government relations practice navigates the complexities of the federal government to achieve policy and advocacy solutions for clients. As a public policy law firm with a thriving legislative and regulatory practice, Powers bring a highly substantive approach to the firm’s client work. The firm’s government relations practice encompasses the full range of bipartisan government relations services, including strategic problem-solving, direct lobbying, legislative development, regulatory affairs, grassroots advocacy, and public outreach, all supported by a deep bench of legal talent with extensive subject matter expertise.