Former FEC Chairman’s Counsel Andrew Woodson Joins Wiley Rein’s Premier Election Law Group

October 19, 2015

Wiley Rein announced today that Andrew G. Woodson, former counsel to Federal Election Commission (FEC) Chairman Lee E. Goodman, has joined the firm’s highly regarded Election Law & Government Ethics Practice as a partner. Mr. Woodson, who previously served as of counsel at the firm, will advise clients in complying with state and federal campaign finance, ethics, and lobbying laws, as well as litigation matters ranging from enforcement actions before the FEC to challenges involving state and federal laws infringing on clients’ First Amendment rights. Mr. Woodson adds depth to a nationally recognized team, commended by Chambers USA as a top-tier group, and described as “the gold standard in this business.”

“Andrew is a rising star whose talent, excellent track record, and collegiality are highly valued,” said Wiley Rein Managing Partner Peter D. Shields. “It’s a pleasure to welcome him back, knowing that our clients will benefit from his FEC background and his deep experience in election law enforcement and compliance, and related litigation.”

Michael E. Toner, former FEC Chairman and co-chair of the Election Law & Government Ethics Practice, said, “Andrew’s leadership and background will further enhance our ability to provide clients with exceptional service and counsel. He is a first-rate litigator and widely respected practitioner in the field—his arrival couldn’t be better timed, as our practice is busier than ever.”

“It is a great opportunity to return to Wiley Rein where I began and developed my legal career,” said Mr. Woodson. “I am excited to join this exceptional and cohesive group of lawyers and look forward to working as part of the team.”

Mr. Woodson counsels political candidates, federal office holders, corporations, trade associations and other organizations on compliance issues involving state and federal campaign finance, ethics, and lobbying laws. Mr. Woodson also ​assists clients in FEC enforcement proceedings and U.S. House Ethics Committee inquiries, and he litigates in state and federal court to protect his clients’ First Amendment rights.

In addition to his private practice experience and service at the FEC, Mr. Woodson served as a legislative assistant in the Office of Congressman Eric Cantor. He received his J.D. and his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia.

Wiley Rein’s Election Law & Government Ethics Practice represents over 300 of the country’s largest corporations, trade associations and other non-profit organizations, as well as high-profile federal officeholders, candidates, and political parties. The firm regularly advises clients on the laws and rules pertaining to political law including federal and state regulation of lobbying, political contributions, political action committees (PACs), ethics, and “pay to play” laws. The Group’s experience in political law litigation and First Amendment advocacy is unmatched, involving landmark challenges to laws and client defense.