The US Studies Centre, in collaboration with the Australian American Leadership Dialogue, hosted a conversation with two leading political advisors, Democrat Tony Podesta and Republican Barry Jackson. Discussion included the current American political scene, the presidential race, and US engagement in the Indo Pacific.
The Australian American Leadership Dialogue (AALD), founded in 1992, is a private diplomatic initiative, which brings together Australian and American leaders from government, enterprise, media, education and the community to help review and refine the parameters of the Australian-American bilateral relationship.
Anthony Podesta
Founder and Chairman, The Podesta Group
Tony Podesta was a visitor at the US Studies Centre in May 2015. He is Founder and Chairman of the Podesta Group, the largest independent government relations and public relations firm in Washington, DC. Previously, Podesta was a former counsel to the late Senator Edward M. Kennedy and a frequent adviser to former President Bill Clinton. He has appeared on major broadcast and cable networks and his writings on governmental, legal, educational, economic, and cultural issues have been published in The New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Newsday, Baltimore Sun and other leading newspapers.
Barry Jackson
Former Chief of Staff for Speaker John Boehner and Key Advisor to President George W. Bush
Barry Jackson was a visitor at the US Studies Centre in March 2009 and May 2015. He served as Chief of Staff for Speaker Boehner from 2010 to June 2012 and as a key advisor to President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009.
