James Lawson

James Lawson is President of Presidio PAG, Inc., a public affairs firm that works in a collaborative and bipartisan way to implement targeted and effective strategies on behalf of its clients. He has a decade of experience in San Diego government and lobbying, with a diverse background in creating public policy, advocating for private development interests and implementing complex strategic initiatives. Throughout his career, Mr. Lawson has built strong relationships in the public sector, private sector and on both sides of the political aisle.

Mr. Lawson’s career in San Diego began on the campaign of former San Diego City Councilmember and current San Diego Mayor, Kevin Faulconer. Following Faulconer’s 2006 election to the City Council, Lawson served in his office for over five years where he was responsible for all matters related to land-use, redevelopment, housing and transportation.

Following his tenure in Faulconer’s office, Mr. Lawson joined California Strategies, a statewide public affairs firm. While there, he developed and executed advocacy strategies, specializing in building broad and diverse coalitions to support his client’s interests.

Mr. Lawson is actively involved in several organizations throughout the San Diego region including the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce, the San Diego County Taxpayer’s Association and the Downtown San Diego Partnership where he co-chairs the Public Policy Committee. He is also an elected member of the Downtown Community Planning Council, a body that advises the San Diego City Council on Downtown land-use issues and other public policy matters.