Exclusive: Google taps Sen. Todd Young chief for top government affairs role
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Google has tapped Sen. Todd Young's (R-Ind.) chief of staff John Connell to lead government affairs and public policy for the U.S. and Canada, the company told Axios exclusively.
Why it matters: Google snagged another high-level Capitol Hill Republican to be its top lobbyist at a time when tech and AI companies have a more positive — yet tenuous — relationship with the government than in the recent past, thanks to the AI boom and Trump's embrace of the technology.
- Connell succeeds Mark Isakowitz, who had the job from 2019-2025 before heading to the Hill to be chief of staff for Sen. Dave McCormick (R-Pa.) last year.
Connell has worked in the Senate, House and on campaigns for 15 years, and currently oversees Young's legislative and political functions including his work on technology.
- Young has been a key Senate Republican on AI and quantum issues.
What they're saying: "John is a highly respected strategist with a track record of finding common ground and achieving results," Karan Bhatia, Google's global head of government affairs, said in a statement.
- "We're thrilled to have his deep experience leading our U.S. and Canada team, helping us work with lawmakers to advance policies that drive technology and innovation forward."
- "Leaving Capitol Hill is bittersweet, but I can't think of a more exciting moment to join the technology and innovation sector at a company laser-focused on shaping what comes next," Connell said in a statement.
The big picture: Google's lobbying portfolio covers a wide expanse of issues, including AI, quantum, trade, content moderation, health technology, privacy, kids' online safety and taxes.
