Data center companies learned that approval in Washington doesn’t guarantee success across the country. Despite having permits, agency backing, and presidential support, they faced community opposition. The upcoming midterms pose a similar challenge. Democrats may gain control of Congress, but corporations must not equate this with Democratic dominance nationwide.
Strong partnerships between corporate communications and government affairs teams help avoid this mistake. Communications teams know that election results won’t completely reflect stakeholder opinions on future issues. Government affairs teams understand that changes in Congress do not render presidential influence ineffective.
Historical examples underscore this point. In 2006, Republicans lost Congress, yet President George W. Bush initiated the Iraq surge. In 2014, despite a Republican Congress, President Barack Obama enacted significant policies. After losing the House in 2018, President Donald Trump still exercised considerable executive power.
Communications and government affairs teams must consider a variety of stakeholders. Data centers exemplify the risks of neglecting community engagement. Proven Media Solutions’ report found that while government affairs teams secured permits, communications teams were not as involved, resulting in significant project delays.
Data centers are only one area requiring joint efforts from corporate and regional teams once election results are known.
Consider diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Corporations have distanced themselves from controversial aspects, but executive orders in 2025 reignited debates. Companies reliant on government contracts found strategic benefits but faced internal pushback. Public accusations from lawmakers could further complicate these dynamics, requiring trust-building with diverse stakeholders before any hearings.
Immigration is another complicated issue. Hotel chains faced pressure regarding accommodations for ICE agents. Controversies over these policies highlight the need for a coordinated approach, involving both government affairs and communications teams.
Post-election strategies should include a unified playbook developed by both teams. Each team understands different priorities—regulatory knowledge from government affairs and public perception insights from corporate communications. Messaging must remain consistent across all platforms to effectively convey company positions.
Democrats and Republicans have faced predictions of political irrelevance before, but voter concerns remain tied to economic well-being and local impacts. Companies planning for hypothetical shifts risk addressing an electorate that doesn’t align with reality.
Dustin Siggins, founder of Proven Media Solutions, emphasizes the importance of strategic alignment within organizations to successfully navigate post-election landscapes.