Russell T. Kelley

Rusty Kelley has represented the business interests of Fortune 500 companies, various associations and other organizations before state legislators, regulators, or other elected officials for more than 30 years. He is regarded as a leader and an innovator in his field, and has been noted in publications such as Texas Monthly, San-Antonio-Express-News, and Capitol Inside for his dedication, intelligence, and character.

In addition to receiving several awards, Kelley was featured in Practicing Texas Politics, a text book that outlines government in the state. In this text, Kelley is highlighted for his “hard work,” “charm and congeniality,” and for presenting the facts in a “straightforward, honest manner.” More recently, Texas Monthly named Kelley one of “The 25 Most Influential People in the State of Texas.”

Kelley is a highly effective player in state politics. He is consistently sought after to be involved in all major pieces of legislation during each legislative session.

Kelley has worked in politics since he was 20 years old, and has seen the power change party hands numerous times. Throughout the years he has employed the use of effective technology and has developed numerous legislative strategies that allow him to consistently produce desired results.

Prior to lobbying, he served as Chief of Staff of the Office of the Speaker of the House, and served as Chief Sergeant at Arms in the Texas House of Representatives.

Carol McGarah

Carol McGarah has worked with Rusty Kelley in Austin, Texas since 2001. She represents several Fortune 500 companies and is well-known and regarded for her experience and knowledge of various topics including: education, energy, environmental issues, financial institutions, IT, and transportation.

Previously, McGarah served as the Committee Director of the powerful Senate Natural Resources Committee. During her 10 years with this committee she established solid relationships with key members of the legislature and various environmental agencies, and developed a thorough knowledge of Texas’ air, water, and waste issues.

McGarah dedicated countless hours to the preparation and passage of groundbreaking pieces of legislation, including Senate Bill 1 in 1997 and Senate Bill 2 in 2001. Both of these bills dealt with state water management measures and greatly impacted the state.

McGarah was also instrumental in the development and passage of SB 5 in the 75th Legislature, which created the Texas Emissions Reduction Program. This program has served as a model for numerous other states across the country, and has been a vital component in assisting Texas meet the Federal Air Quality Standards.

Michael Johnson

Michael Johnson has worked with Rusty Kelley since 2004 and is well-regarded for his knowledge of healthcare and education issues. Before joining Rusty’s team, Johnson worked at Public Strategies Inc., as a research assistant for the Campaigns Division. He also contributed significant work to several Texas State Senate Campaigns.

Johnson previously worked in the Sports Information Offices at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville and the University of Texas at Austin, covering a variety of sports for the Universities’ Athletic Departments.

Sara Kemptner

Sara Kemptner, who has served the team since 2005, is known for efficiently and effectively assisting clients work with the State of Texas throughout Legislative Sessions and the Interim. Prior to joining the team Kemptner worked for former Senator Kip Averitt, and for Representative Larry Phillips. She recently graduated from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at U.T.

Brenda Eschberger

Brenda Eschberger has been an integral part of the team for more than 30 years. She is the Executive Director of the Texas Soft Drink Association and Secretary/Treasurer of the Outdoor Advertising Association of Texas. Eschberger has a strong knowledge of regulatory, eminent domain, property rights, and healthcare issues from working with both associations.

Eschberger, a native Central Texan, began her career in politics while working for the Texas Speaker of the House, Billy Clayton. She also served as Committee Clerk for the Texas House of Representatives’ Committee on Security and Sanctions, which later became the House Corrections Committee.

Tara Mueller

Tara Mueller has worked with Rusty Kelley since 1996 and serves as Controller and Ethics Compliance Officer. She oversees and manages all financial aspects including payables, receivables, and client contracts, as well as advising on ethics issues and completing all ethics commission reports.

Barbara Waldon

Barbara Waldon has worked with Rusty Kelley since 2005. She is the Event Coordinator responsible for creating, promoting, and executing client events. She also manages the daily operations of the office and attends committee hearings. Previously, Barbara was the Executive Assistant to Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs for five years and was the Office Administrator for Senator John Cornyn’s campaign while he was the Attorney General of Texas.