Capitol Weekly’s Top 100: Aaron Read

TOP 100 HALL OF FAME

Aaron Read is a Capitol institution, a fixture on the Top 100 (15 for 15), 
and one of the most visible and noteworthy lobbyists in the community. But don’t pigeonhole 
Aaron Read and Associates as just a lobbying firm. No, they may be best known for their highly successful track record in the third house, but Read and company also work in political strategy, market analysis, procurement and campaign consulting, among other services. Read has built one of the most horizontally integrated firms in all of California politics and its roster of clients – including Comcast, the Orange County Employees Association, the Omidyar Network – is a testament to its success. Read’s lobbying activity at the Capitol stretches back to Ronald Reagan’s time as governor. He founded his firm in 1978 and has been embedded in the minutia of California policymaking for decades. In that time he has become the epitome of a do-it-all political consultant, and is widely respected for his ability not only to influence policy but to shape it. And as respected as he is an individual, one of his most underrated skills is his ability to choose extraordinarily talented people for his team. From partners Steve Baker and Terry McHale down to the receptionist, Read and Associates is known throughout the Capitol for a depth and quality of people equal or superior to any in the game. That is a testament to Aaron Read and the mindset he brings to his work. But many don’t realize Read also has a love for teaching – he once was a graduate-level instructor in business and public administration at Golden Gate University and has maintained a teaching credential – and is a lifelong pilot and SCUBA and golf enthusiast. We don’t know what his handicap is, but even if his game (or on-course style) is more John Daly than Tiger Woods, he’s a bona fide Capitol icon.

Updated Aug. 6, 2024.