• EDUCATION
  • B.A. - Colorado State University

Jon Hoganson

Principal

Among other things, Chicago is known for its full contact politics and hard working people. A native of the area, Jon Hoganson is no stranger to either. Whether it’s developing a winning legislative strategy, an effective message, or pounding the pavement, he’s never afraid to roll up his sleeves and get the job done. A veteran of many political campaigns, Capitol Hill and the private sector, Jon joined Mehlman Vogel Castagnetti Inc. in September 2008.

Jon’s career on Capitol Hill began as a Legislative Fellow. In November of 2002 he served on Representative Rahm Emanuel’s (D-IL) transition team following his election to Congress and began working for Rep. Emanuel full time in January 2003. During his five years with Rep. Emanuel, Jon served as Legislative Director and later Policy Director (when Rep. Emanuel was elected Chair of the House Democratic Caucus, a position in House Democratic Leadership). In this capacity he oversaw advancement of Rep. Emanuel’s legislative agenda and played a key role in message development, with particular emphasis on energy, environment, transportation, and appropriations. As a member of the House Democratic leadership staff, Jon helped pass several democratic provisions including the Democratic “Six for 06” legislative agenda and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (H.R.6).

After six years Jon left the Hill for the Information Technology Industry Council where he served as the Director of Government Relations. In this capacity he developed a specialty in tax, trade, and high-skilled immigration policy, working on behalf of America’s most innovative entrepreneurs and high tech leaders.

Hoganson’s career in politics did not begin in Chicago, but rather in Colorado when he attended Colorado State University. Between 1994 and 1996, Jon worked on many successful — and a few unsuccessful — campaigns at the local, state, and national level. Returning to Chicago upon graduation, Jon worked for Jasculca Terman & Associates, a leading public affairs firm whose clients included several Fortune 500 companies. The following year he joined Ariel Capital Management, where his duties included government and community relations. Throughout his entire professional career Jon has remained an active campaigner and has advised campaigns for every office from the state house to the White House.