Alert 10.10.25
Federal Government Shutdown: Appropriations Stalemate, Operational Slowdowns and Grant Cancellation
Funding lapse halts key federal activities and heightens uncertainty for agencies, contractors and grant recipients
John M. Thomas is a senior policy advisor in Pillsbury’s Government Law and Strategies practice. John has nearly two decades of experience in the supervision of various legislative and federal policies involving defense, foreign affairs, homeland security, veterans affairs, energy and environmental issues.
John’s robust government experience allows him to successfully assist clients in navigating their most complex and politically sensitive matters. Prior to joining Pillsbury, John was a key member of a government affairs practice representing various Defense and Homeland Security clients as well as innovative technology companies and universities.
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John also served on Capitol Hill as a senior staff member for more than a decade as Chief of staff for Rep. Scott W. Taylor, and chief of staff and legislative director for Rep. Scott Rigell, where he led and successfully executed long-term legislative plans for both the National Defense Authorization Act and the annual appropriation bills. In addition, he was responsible for all federal policy issues and the office’s internal operations. John was also a Military Legislative Assistant to Rep. Walter B. Jones, Jr., where he drafted legislation and amendments, and oversaw various policy matters. John served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for eight years.
John has voluntarily registered as an “inactive” attorney with the bar of the State of Illinois and does not practice law.
Representative Experience
- Advised a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense company on government relations, national security, and business development, including DoD engagement, joint venture support, facility negotiations, and FMS/DPA/DPAS compliance.
- Advised a defense technology company on government relations and strategic engagement, building congressional and DoD relationships that supported a plus-up and major U.S. Army contract award.
- Advised a U.S. subsidiary of a global aerospace company on government relations and regulatory engagement, securing congressional and DoD support that led the Air Force to procure new conformal fuel tanks for the F-15EX.
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- Advised a maritime intelligence technology company on government relations, securing congressional support and appropriations while providing broader strategic and legal counsel with DHS, State and DoD.
- Advised Silicon Valley defense tech startup company on government relations and how to navigate the defense innovation ecosystem, secure congressional appropriation and political support.
Professional Highlights
- Staff Appreciation Award – Gold Star Wives of America.
Speaking Engagements
- “Defense Game Day,” Fed Supernova DC. Panelist
- “Government Relations and Startups: A dialogue with John Thomas,” Securing our Future podcast, September 2, 2025. Interview.
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- “Dual-Use and Opportunities for Innovation,” RSA Executive Briefing Series, April 28, 2025. Panelist.
- “Smart Cities Smart Bases Challenge III and Prize Announcement,” Smart Cities Connect Spring Conference & Expo, April 15, 2025. Panelist.
- “Smart Cities Smart Bases Challenge I: AI & Autonomous Systems and Emergency Response & Mitigation,” Smart Cities Connect Spring Conference & Expo, April 15, 2025. Panelist.
Education
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J.D., University of Tulsa College of Law, 2006
M.A., National Defense University, 2011
B.A., Oral Roberts University, 2003
Admissions
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Illinois
Languages
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French