O’Neill and Associates, New England’s leading full-service government relations and public affairs firm, announced the addition of Ben Goldstein-Smith as senior director in the federal relations practice.

“We are thrilled to have Ben join our team in Washington,” said CEO Thomas P. O’Neill III. “His wealth of experience in government and politics both in DC and Maryland make him a valuable addition to the firm.”

Prior to joining O’Neill and Associates, Ben served as national political director to former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and ran his leadership political action committee, AMERIPAC. Throughout his decade with Leader Hoyer, Ben was instrumental in supporting and electing many Members of the current House Democratic Caucus. In the years leading up to this, Ben was Maryland political director and campaign manager for Rep. Hoyer and later deputy executive director for AMERIPAC. There he oversaw the day-to-day operations of the office while managing its multi-million-dollar budget.

“As our federal team continues to grow, Ben’s extensive government background is a wonderful complement to our client service offerings” said Shelly M. O’Neill, Chief Operating Officer.

“We know that Ben’s years of experience with the former Majority Leader of the U.S. House of Representative will prove highly valuable to both our federal team and clients alike” said Vice Chairman John Cahill. “We couldn’t be happier to work with him.”

Before working with Leader Hoyer, Ben served as campaign manager for Maryland State Senate Majority Leader Nancy King and later as her legislative aide. An active participant in Maryland politics, he additionally played a key advisory role in Governor Wes Moore’s campaign.

Ben earned his Bachelor of Arts in government and politics at the University of Maryland, College Park where he was also enrolled in the College Park Scholars Public Leadership Program. He lives in Bethesda, Maryland with his wife and daughter.