As a Founding Partner of IPA, Trent Townsend is responsible for advising clients on the legislative process and providing guidance, strategy and execution of initiatives designed to achieve positive outcomes and desired results in the Texas Capitol. Prior to forming IPA, Trent managed Texas Senate offices on both sides of the political aisle – first as Legislative Director for Senator Kim Brimer and most recently as Chief of Staff to Senator Kirk Watson. This valuable experience working for both Republicans and Democrats has given Trent an understanding of the differing philosophies of government and public policy objectives and allows him a unique perspective on behalf of his clients. During Trent’s service in the Senate he served as an advisor and general counsel on a variety of issues with emphasis on the state budget, taxes, transportation, telecommunications, the environment and heavily regulated industries. In addition, Trent spent a two year legislative cycle serving as the chief advisor to Chairman of the Sunset Advisory Commission, the state entity responsible for reviewing and streamlining state agency functions. Trent has established a reputation amongst his peers as an honest and hard worker who has built and maintained numerous contacts in state and local government, state agencies, legislative offices, the executive branch and advocacy organizations. This reputation has carried over into the private sector and to Trent’s representation of his clientele before government entities. Trent is a lifelong resident of Austin, Texas, a graduate of TCU and Baylor University School of Law, and a member in good standing of the State Bar of Texas. He and his wife Ann, and their daughter Zoe continue to live, work and enjoy the outdoors in Austin. |