Client-centered Service

I’m James Higdon. For more than 20 years, I’ve helped organizations make their case to the people who write and carry out public policy across Kentucky. I launched Higdon Consult in 2026 with a simple goal: to provide elevated government relations and consulting services to a focused group of premier clients.

Good government relations starts with understanding why a policy is moving - the incentives, the politics, and the personalities behind it. From there, I build a complete plan with each client. Execution means finding the right sponsors, preparing materials and testimony, and assembling coalitions that make a winning case.

The same lessons hold for policy consulting. Organizations often need an earnest assessment of their strengths and weaknesses before embarking on an issues campaign or introducing themselves to state and local lawmakers.

In 2005, I joined one of the Commonwealth’s largest and highest regarded government affairs firms. Over the next two decades, I earned the trust of legislators, staff, and the business and political insiders who are moving the state forward. I acted as lead lobbyist for Fortune 1000 companies, local governments, and national trade associations. My work spans tax policy, health care, emerging technology, infrastructure, local government, and travel and tourism.

I hold a B.A. in political science and an MBA from the University of Louisville. An Owensboro native, Louisville is now home for my wife and me, and our two incredible children. I recently served on the Board of Directors of the Kentucky Science Center.

If your organization is facing a policy challenge or opportunity, I’d welcome a conversation.