Don Kent

Nickles Group

Don Kent joined The Nickles Group in 2012, bringing 20 years of public and private sector experience navigating complex legislative and regulatory agendas. He leads the firm’s homeland security and defense team as well as practice areas related to cybersecurity, immigration, bioterrorism and technology.

Pulling from his diverse experience, ranging from playing a pivotal role in standing up the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to assisting a space industry client gain competitive advantage over an entrenched incumbent, Don helps clients think strategically and take the right proactive steps in Washington to achieve their business goals. His ability to understand policy, legislation and process makes him an asset to clients looking for business-minded advocacy and strategic counsel.

Prior to joining The Nickles Group, Don served as Chief of Staff for Senator Ron Johnson (R-WI), advising the freshman Senator’s activities on the Budget Committee, Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. He also served as Assistant Secretary of DHS under Secretary Michael Chertoff and as Senior Advisor to Secretary Tom Ridge, managing communications to Congress on behalf of the Administration and first two DHS Secretaries.