The Southern Group adds power players from Senate, House, White House to D.C. team

Beau Rothschild Brian Darling Kaitlyn Roberts
New hires bolster the firm’s reach across the federal government and expand its strategic firepower in Washington.

TSG Advocates, the federal practice of The Southern Group, is adding muscle to its D.C. team with three new hires whose resumes span the U.S. Senate, U.S. House, and the White House.

With Brian Darling, Beau Rothschild, and Kaitlyn Roberts joining the roster, the firm is doubling down on its commitment to building a strong presence in delivering results

Darling brings decades of experience on Capitol Hill, including senior staff roles for five U.S. Senators and policy leadership on the Senate Judiciary Committee. He’s well-known in conservative policy circles and has served as a communications voice for right-leaning think tanks and clients across government contracting, tech, and real estate.

“Brian served me both as Counsel and Sr. Communications Director during a very active time in the Senate. He is unique in the lobbying world because he brings high-level expertise in both public relations and policy, and occupies the growing ideological ranks of liberty-oriented Republicans. Brian will thrive in his new role and will provide a unique skill set to TSG Advocates,” said U.S. Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky.

Rothschild joins with over 20 years of experience in legislative affairs and political strategy, including time as a Chief of Staff and Senior Adviser in the House. He’s credited with shaping several processes that remain in use today within the House Administration Committee. His lobbying portfolio has spanned Fortune 100 companies, start-ups, and international trade clients.

“Beau Rothschild served as Chief of Staff to our legislative office with outstanding professionalism, political acumen, and unwavering commitment to public service. He was instrumental in managing the day-to-day operations of the office, overseeing policy development, stakeholder engagement, and legislative strategy. Beau brought clarity and structure to complex issues, maintained strong relationships with constituents and colleagues, and ensured that our office operated efficiently and effectively. His integrity, discretion, and leadership were invaluable, and I have no doubt he will be an asset to any organization he joins,” said Texas state Rep. Allen Fletcher.

Roberts brings nearly a decade of experience in federal policy and public affairs, including service in the first Trump administration and Biden administration. Her work allowed her to become well-acquainted with the president’s executive orders, appointments, legislation, and inner circle — giving her an insider’s view of how decisions get made at the highest levels. A Harvard-trained strategist with a background in global affairs, Roberts most recently served as a corporate advisor in the Washington office of Aramco. She’s drawn to the intersection of business and policy — a space where TSG Advocates is increasingly driving results.

These latest additions follow closely on the heels of Ben Watson’s hire. Watson, the former Florida state director for the Robert F. Kennedy Jr. presidential campaign, adds public affairs and communications expertise to the growing team.

“These new hires bring a new level of talent and connections to our firm — and that will be game-changing for our clients,” stated Chase Kroll, founding member of TSG Advocates. “Collectively, we offer a rare combination of real-time insight and access across the entire federal ecosystem at a time when relationships and timing matter more than ever.”

With a growing lineup that touches every corner of the federal ecosystem, TSG Advocates continues to position itself as a go-to firm for companies navigating complex political and policy environments. The firm plans to continue its growth trajectory with more additions expected later this year.

“Our clients need a federal partner who can see around corners and deliver when it counts,” stated Rachel Cone, The Southern Group’s Senior Managing Partner. “With Brian, Beau, Kaitlyn, and Benjamin on board, we’re building the kind of team that not only understands D.C. — they shape it.”

Drew Wilson

Drew Wilson covers legislative campaigns and fundraising for Florida Politics. He is a former editor at The Independent Florida Alligator and business correspondent at The Hollywood Reporter. Wilson, a University of Florida alumnus, covered the state economy and Legislature for LobbyTools and The Florida Current prior to joining Florida Politics.



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