About

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Nielsen Strategies is a California-focused public policy and government relations firm dedicated to helping organizations navigate the state’s fast-moving legislative, budgetary, and regulatory landscape. Founded by attorney and senior policy strategist Chris Nielsen, the firm provides clients with the insight, relationships, and execution needed to succeed on California’s biggest and most complex issues.

Our work is grounded in more than a decade of senior-level experience at the highest levels of state government. From 2014 to 2025, Chris Nielsen served in multiple senior roles with Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire, including as Senior Policy Advisor, where he shaped landmark reforms in climate, energy, insurance, and wildfire policy. He guided the Senate through multi-billion-dollar negotiations, helped craft major legislative packages, and played a central role in extending California’s Cap-and-Invest program through 2045—representing tens of billions in future investment.

Nielsen’s expertise spans energy, telecommunications, insurance, alcohol, tribal, labor, fisheries, revenue and taxation, budget and many other issues. As both an attorney and a policy strategist, he has secured tens of millions in budget investments, steered dozens of bills into law, and advanced key regulatory reforms with state agencies and the Governor’s Office. He has also been a trusted political strategist—supporting successful campaigns, developing targeted communications, and aligning electoral commitments with governing priorities. In addition to his policy work, he serves as a Judge Advocate (JAG) officer in the California Army National Guard.

Nielsen Strategies was created to bring this depth of experience to clients seeking a knowledgeable, high-trust, and solutions-driven partner in California policy. We approach every engagement with strategic clarity, honest guidance, and a work ethic that reflects the urgency of the challenges and opportunities facing our state.