Capitol Weekly’s Top 100: Shari McHugh

No. 84 Shari McHugh

Shari McHugh is known as “Ms. Insurance.” Her expertise in one of the thorniest issues at the Capitol is a major reason why the boutique lobbying firm she and her husband Gavin operate can run with the big dogs who collect far more in quarterly receipts. McHugh Koepke Padron Government Relations boasts clients like the Association of California Life and Health Insurance Companies, the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and the Hartford Insurance Group as well as a diverse array of other big special interests, including the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, the Pechanga Band of Indians, Shell Oil, Warner Music and the Western States Petroleum Association. Still, Shari is most associated with the insurance industry; prior to joining the firm, she was the senior vice president for the Coalition of California Insurance Professionals.

Updated Aug. 11, 2026