Meet James Hunt, Manager, Government Relations

Our team sat down with James Hunt, Manager, GovernmentRelations to learn more about him and the vast wealth of knowledge he brings to Bramer Group. You can read our conversation below.  

What decision gave you the most success in your career?  

So far, the decision to move to DC has been very successful.

WhenI started my final year at NYU I didn’t see myself working in DC, but here I am. Since growing up giving back to the community and public service was very important. Washington DC is a hub of political activity, and working on CapitolHill for members of Congress is a particularly exciting opportunity. It allows you to be at the forefront of the legislative process and play a role in shaping policy decisions that affect people's lives. My desire to care about the lives of people I will never meet has helped drive my work towards meaningful outcomes.

Even though I didn't study political science or have previous experience interning in DC during college, my values and desire to help others has driven me towards a career in politics.

Who is your hero?  

My grandfather David H. Hunt, was QB and captain of the football and lacrosse teams in HS then went onto Naval Academy, was a navy pilot and served in WWII and Korea.  

What is your most prized possession?  

My grandfather’s Naval Academy yearbook from 1948. He passed before I was born so it is something I remember him by.

Do you have a “pump up” song? If so, what is it?  

WhenI was training and warming up for races, House EDM playlist.

What is your advice to young people who are interested in working in government relations?  

Working in Washington DC, particularly on Capitol Hill, offers unparalleled access tot he inner workings of the government, and allows interns to learn from experienced professionals who are deeply involved in the political process. This experience can be incredibly valuable in shaping one's future career aspirations and providing a deeper understanding of how government works.

Additionally, interning in Washington DC offers an opportunity to build a network of contacts who may be useful in future job searches. This is particularly important in politics and government, where relationships and networks are often critical to success.

Overall,I would strongly encourage college students who are interested in politics and government to consider interning on Capitol Hill in Washington DC. It can be a transformative experience that opens new opportunities and provides valuable insights into the world of politics and government.

Tell us about a memorable moment from your career.  

Previously when I was working for the City of New York when the government funding bills were passed every and it was rewarding to see our priorities included in those government funding bills. However, one moment stands out among the others. I had the honor in helping the reauthorization and replenishment James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. The act guarantees that first responders and victims from around the country receive the care they need when diagnosed with a 9/11-related illness.

After the Act passed and was signed into law, the Mayor held a ceremony with NYPD,FDNY, and bestowed the Bronze Medallion to the members of Congress, advocates and organizations that fought for the 9/11 compensation act During the ceremonya t the Beacon Theater in New York and got a call from Senate Minority LeaderSchumer’s Office that the Government Funding bill is locked and included a very long multi year project that will provide extra funding for foster care children.

It was incredibly gratifying to see the act pass and be signed into law, and to have the opportunity to attend the ceremony at the Beacon Theater where theBronze Medallion was bestowed upon those who fought for its passage. The dedication and hard work of individuals like yourself played a critical role in making the passage of the act possible.

Moreover, receiving the call from Senate Minority Leader Schumer's office about the inclusion of a long multi-year project that will provide extra funding for foster care children was a bonus to an already memorable day. It's moments like these that make a career in politics truly fulfilling.

What is your greatest accomplishment? 

My greatest professional accomplishment I think has yet to come, but so far was working for a member of Congress, working on behalf of my hometown City, then now working in the Defense industry which has always been a passion of mine and in my family heritage. I think the previous question about a memorable moment in my career can be also used for my greatest accomplishment.

If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?  

The ability to teleport would be my superpower, It would certainly make life more convenient and efficient, as you could instantly transport yourself to any location you desire without worrying about the time or cost of travel.

Imagine being able to live in any city or country you choose, without the need for a long and tiring commute. You could easily visit friends and family in other parts of the world, attend multiple events in different locations in the same day, and even explore distant and exotic destinations without the hassle of travel.

Overall, the power of teleportation would provide unparalleled freedom and convenience, and it would undoubtedly make life much easier.