Government relations attorney Richard Boykin advocates the interests of significant institutions headquartered in the Midwest before state and local government in Illinois, as well as federal legislative and executive agencies in Washington, D.C. Richard offers a proven ability to assist people and organizations to achieve distinct objectives when working with and through all levels of government.
Richard’s experience is extensive and includes challenges pertaining to appropriations, postal, healthcare, education, telecommunications and municipal advocacy. He counsels clients having issues before major committees in Washington, D.C., such as Oversight and Government Reform, Financial Services, Ways and Means, and Energy and Commerce.
Valued for his proven ability to work across party lines, Richard’s non-partisan approach to problem-solving and resolute focus on productive communication is supported by his integrity, work ethic and absolute dedication to those he serves. Having spent decades developing relationships at all levels of government, Richard offers clients the knowledge of how government works and who the decision-makers are in order to help them realize their tangible goals.
Richard served as chief of staff to U.S. Rep. Danny K. Davis (D-Ill.) of Chicago for nine years, where he was responsible for a staff of 22 professionals. He also served as Rep. Davis’ liaison to federal, state, county and city officials, and interacted with business and individual constituents within the Seventh Congressional District, which includes the central business district (Chicago Loop) of Chicago and a significant tract of residential territory extending west from downtown Chicago. Prior to serving as Rep. Davis’ chief of staff, he served as his legislative director.
Prior to his service with Rep. Davis, Richard worked as a Congressional Black Caucus fellow for former U.S. Sen. Carol Moseley-Braun (D-Ill.) He also served as an LBJ intern for U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush (D- Ill.), focusing on education issues.
In addition, Richard has worked with the members and staff of the Congressional Black Caucus on multiple issues. Most recently, he led the caucus’ initiative focusing attention on the State of the African American Male, as well as a task force designed to improve relations between law enforcement organizations and the African American community. In August 2011, Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn appointed Richard to the Business Enterprise Council, which focuses on increasing minority and women participation in state contracts. He was a previous member of the firm’s Legal Personnel Administration Committee, and served as the Federal Relations practice group co-chair for three years.
Notably, Richard hosted a weekly radio show called The Bridge Builder, which sought to empower, educate and enlighten the public about government and politics that impact their daily lives. He is a regular guest speaker at conferences and events.
Richard is not regularly admitted to practice law in the local courts of the District Columbia, and pursuant to Rule 49 limits his practice in the District of Columbia to lobbying federal agencies and the United States Congress.
