The government of Denmark has started shopping for a lobbyist with ties to President Trump as the president has expressed his intention to take over the autonomous Danish territory of Greenland. This move is in response to Trump’s stated intention to try to take over Greenland, a self-ruling territory of Denmark.
Other countries that would be affected by Trump’s policies, such as Panama and Somalia, have also sought out help on K Street to navigate the new administration. Panama signed a contract with BGR Group, a powerhouse lobbying firm founded by establishment Republicans, for nearly $2.5 million over the next year. BGR Group also signed a $600,000 one-year contract with the Embassy of Somalia, which is facing the prospect that the Trump administration might scale back military cooperation.
South Korea, which could be hurt by tariffs, expanded its lobbying corps by bringing on former Trump campaign adviser Bryan Lanza and his team at Mercury Public Affairs.
The surge in interest from foreign governments in lobbyists with connections to the new administration highlights the uncertainty and unpredictability of Trump’s approach to foreign policy, which has sparked concerns among even longtime US allies. The administration’s brinkmanship with Colombia over tariffs and the deportation of unauthorized immigrants over the weekend showed how quickly tensions can escalate.
Many countries are finding it difficult to navigate the ever-changing landscape of Trump’s policies, leading them to seek out lobbyists with ties to the new administration. This has created a dilemma for influence professionals who want to stay on Trump’s good side while also getting results for their clients.
