Foreign Governments Seek Lobbying Power Amid Trump's Second Term

As President Trump begins his second term, foreign nations such as Denmark, Panama, Somalia, and South Korea are urgently engaging lobbyists with ties to his administration to navigate the uncertainty surrounding potential tariffs, acquisitions, and foreign policy tensions.

The government of Denmark, typically not a heavy investor in lobbying efforts in Washington, is changing its approach as President Trump embarks on his second term. With Trump's notable interest in acquiring Greenland—an autonomous territory of Denmark—the Danish embassy is actively seeking a lobbyist connected to the president. However, Denmark is not the only country looking to fortify their position amidst Trump's confrontational stance.

A range of nations facing threats from Trump's policies have turned to K Street for guidance. For instance, Panama is negotiating against Trump's claims over the Panama Canal, and has already signed a lobbying contract valued at approximately $2.5 million with Trump's ally, David Urban of the BGR Group, just days before the inauguration. The BGR Group, a well-known lobbying firm founded by establishment Republicans, is also working with the Embassy of Somalia, which is concerned about a potential reduction in military cooperation under Trump's administration, having secured a $600,000 contract.

Similarly, South Korea has increased its lobbying efforts to counter potential tariffs by enlisting Bryan Lanza, a former Trump campaign advisor, and his team from Mercury Public Affairs.

This notable influx of foreign governments seeking lobbyists with Trump administration connections highlights the growing unease among many traditional U.S. allies. The administration's recent tensions with Colombia over tariffs and the deportation of undocumented immigrants underscore the precarious landscape where established relations can quickly shift.