AAPC Insider - January 15
Hi, AAPC Insiders!
I'm Anna Ross, your new Membership Marketing & Communications Manager, and I’m thrilled to connect with you in this role. As someone who’s passionate about amplifying the voices and impact of our industry, I’m here to keep you informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve.
In this issue, you’ll find insights on opportunities for growth during the off-year, straight from top consultants, details on our upcoming webinar series to help strengthen your business, a message from Wonder Cave and our sentiments on the passing of an industry trailblazer, Stu Spencer.
Let’s make this year one for building connections, gaining insights, and achieving success together.
Yours,
Anna Ross
Membership Marketing & Communications Manager
In this edition…
• In Memoriam: Stu Spencer
• Seizing the Off-Year
• Webinar Series on Strengthening Your Business
• Wonder Cave: Connecting Brands & Audiences
• Don’t Miss!
Stu Spencer (L) and AAPC Foundation Chair Becki Donatelli (R) at AAPC’s 2019 Pollie Awards & Conference.
In Memoriam: Stu Spencer
The American Association of Political Consultants (AAPC) joins the political consulting community in mourning the loss of Stuart K. Spencer, who passed away on January 12, 2025, at the age of 97.
Stu was more than a political consultant—he was a trailblazer whose work defined and elevated our profession. As co-founder of Spencer-Roberts, he brought strategic innovation and professionalism to hundreds of campaigns, shaping Republican politics at the highest levels. Stu’s role in electing Ronald Reagan as Governor of California and later as President of the United States cemented his legacy as one of the most influential consultants in American history. He truly understood how to elect Republicans in the post-Nixon era.
Throughout his career, Stu’s vision, integrity, and dedication to his craft earned him the respect of peers and clients alike. His willingness to share his knowledge and mentor the next generation of consultants leaves a lasting impact on our field. We were honored to have him share his wisdom and wit at the 2019 Pollies, in celebration of the 50th anniversary of AAPC’s founding.
Stu’s influence extended far beyond individual campaigns—he shaped the political discourse, strengthened the foundations of our industry, and embodied the principles of ethical and impactful consulting. His strategic brilliance and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as an inspiration to all who follow in his footsteps. We were proud to induct him into the AAPC Hall of Fame in 1992.
The AAPC expresses its deepest condolences to Stu’s family, friends, and colleagues. His work will continue to resonate within our community, reminding us of the transformative power of thoughtful strategy and dedicated service.
Stu Spencer will forever be remembered as a true pioneer, a master strategist, and a guiding light in the world of political consulting. His legacy endures.
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Turning the Off-Year into a Growth Year
Off-years might lack federal election buzz, but they’re prime time for consultants to innovate and grow. AAPC Board Members Trey Richardson (Sagac Public Affairs, LLC) and Kelly Gibson (Stronger Than Communications) share strategies to make 2025 a springboard for success.
“Off-years are perfect for specializing, embracing technology, and building relationships,” says Trey. He emphasizes the opportunities in state and local elections and legislative sessions. “Policy areas like education, healthcare, infrastructure, tax, and environmental regulation remain active, creating openings for consultants to advise campaigns, lobby, and manage grassroots efforts.”
Kelly highlights the impact of partisan shifts in Washington. “Organizations can seize off-years to advance their goals—whether by aligning with or countering the administration. Preparation and adaptability are key to connecting with the right audiences and maximizing opportunities.”
By staying proactive and adaptable, consultants can turn downtime into a competitive edge.
Unlock Your Competitive Edge: AAPC’s New Webinar Series for Consultants
Ready to strengthen your political consulting business? AAPC’s upcoming webinar series is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to thrive in any season. Whether you’re navigating the off-year or sharpening your business acumen, these sessions are packed with actionable insights to drive your success.
Here’s what’s on the agenda:
• Thriving in the Off-Year: Discover strategies to turn downtime into growth opportunities.
• The HR Playbook: Build a winning workplace culture while staying compliant with ever-changing regulations.
• Contracts 101: Learn how to craft agreements that protect your business and reputation.
• From Budget to Bottom Line: Master financial planning to ensure long-term stability and growth.
• Pitch Perfect: Nail your client pitches and elevate your networking game.
Don’t miss your chance to gain practical knowledge from industry experts. Registration details are coming soon!
About Wonder Cave: Building the Bridge Between Brands and Their Audiences
Our team provides best-in-class text messaging software built with reliability, scalability, and reportability as the foundation. We drive engagement and personalization to activate your audience with unprecedented conversion rates.
Our platform offers brands the ability to create one-to-one conversations at scale, mobilize thousands of advocates and recruits in minutes, enrich your conversation with video and media, and we help you listen to your audiences in real time. Reach out to get started today! [link removed] [ [link removed] ] /
Don't Miss!
• The Pollie Contest Regular Entry Deadline is January 29th. Enter now! [ [link removed] ]
• Volunteer [ [link removed] ] to be a Pollie Contest Judge!
• Our Next Webinar: Influencers at the Ballot Box: How Online Creators Shaped the 2024 Election | January 30th @ 2:00 PM EST. Register here. [ [link removed] ]
• Register for [ [link removed] ] the Orlando Networking Luncheon | February 4th | Citrus Club | Orlando, Florida.
• Nominations for the Campaign Excellence [ [link removed] ] and 40 Under 40 [ [link removed] ] Awards close February 10th
• Attend [ [link removed] ] the Southern Regional Conference | March 19th | New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District | New Orleans, Louisiana
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