FEBRUARY 19, 2026
TSG Advocates Accelerates Growth with Addition of Veteran Capitol Hill and
Automotive Policy Leader John Ohly
Washington, DC – TSG Advocates, the federal lobbying arm of The Southern Group, today announced
the addition of John Ohly, a veteran congressional staffer and automotive industry advocate. The hire
reflects TSG Advocates’ continued momentum as of one of Washington’s fastest-growing bipartisan
lobbying firms and strengthens its national federal advocacy platform. Ohly brings nearly two decades of
experience across Capitol Hill and senior leadership roles directing federal advocacy for two of the
nation’s largest automotive trade associations.
Ohly began his career on Capitol Hill with the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
before joining the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Oversight and Investigations
Subcommittee under Chairmen Fred Upton and Greg Walden. Over more than a decade as a senior
professional staff member, his portfolio covered the automotive sector, technology and cybersecurity,
energy, critical infrastructure, national security, disaster response, and public health. He also led the
bipartisan Encryption Working Group, demonstrating his ability to navigate complex, cross-cutting policy
challenges and build consensus across party lines.
“John’s as bright as he is strategic. During my years on the U.S. House Energy and Commerce
Committee, I relied on John for his smart advice and counsel on a range of issues, but especially in the
areas of national security, cybersecurity, critical infrastructure, the Department of Energy, and the
automotive industry. He brings a work ethic and talent to TSG Advocates that will serve them well,” said
Greg Walden, former Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.
In 2018, Ohly transitioned to the private sector as Director of Federal Affairs for the Alliance for
Automobile Manufacturers, representing 12 of the nation’s largest automakers. Following the
combination of the Auto Alliance and Association of Global Automakers, he joined the senior leadership
team of the newly established Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents manufacturers
responsible for more than 95% of new vehicles sold in the United States. As Head of Congressional
Affairs, he led federal strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic, helped navigate the semiconductor
supply chain crisis, established a standing automotive cybersecurity working group, and played a leading
role in negotiations surrounding automotive safety and infrastructure provisions in the Infrastructure
Investment and Jobs Act.
At TSG Advocates, Ohly will expand the firm’s ability to serve clients in the automotive, energy,
infrastructure, and cybersecurity sectors, which are industries increasingly shaped by federal
investment, oversight, and regulatory action.
“TSG Advocates is growing, and John joining the team reflects our commitment to expanding our
capabilities in key policy areas,” said Chase Kroll, Director of TSG’s Washington, D.C. office. “John
understands how Congress works because he helped drive major policy outcomes on Energy and
Commerce. His experience on the Hill and in the automotive industry strengthens our ability to deliver
strategic, results-focused advocacy for clients.”
Ohly earned a Bachelor of Arts in Diplomatic History from the University of Pennsylvania. He lives in
McLean, Virginia with his wife, Kiley, and their two children.