Melissa Kuipers Blake, co-chair of the firm’s State Government Relations Group, is a nationally recognized government relations attorney, political strategist and trusted advisor who helps clients navigate the intersection of business, law and public policy.

For more than 25 years, she has represented a diverse portfolio of state and federal clients across all 50 states and industries, providing strategic political counsel on legislative advocacy, stakeholder engagement and bipartisan solutions to complex business challenges. She advises domestic and international corporations, trade associations, investors, local governments, non-profits and emerging technology companies on high-stakes legislative and agency-driven matters in state capitols nationwide and in Washington, D.C. Melissa also serves as the firm’s Tampa Office Managing Partner. Her deep roots in her home state of Florida have positioned her at the epicenter of one of the country's most consequential political and economic power centers. She maintains a significant national state lobbying practice in Florida and across all 50 states, representing clients before governors, attorneys general and state legislatures.

Additionally, Melissa maintains a robust federal lobbying practice in Washington, D.C., where she works closely with the White House, federal policymakers, congressional offices, executive agencies and national industry organizations. She brings a practical understanding of how federal decisions impact businesses, helping clients develop effective advocacy strategies and navigate evolving policy challenges.

A recognized political advisor, Melissa’s thought leadership and advocacy work have earned recognition by numerous professional organizations and publications, including Bloomberg, Best Lawyers in America, Tampa Bay Business Journal, Denver Business Journal, 5280 Magazine, Colorado Biz Magazine, and Law Week Colorado.  She is frequently invited to share her insights at major domestic and international conferences and events.