Covington & Burling LLP operates as a limited liability partnership worldwide, with the practice in England and Wales conducted by an affiliated
limited liability multinational partnership, Covington & Burling LLP, which is formed under the laws of the State of Delaware in the United States
and authorized and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority with registration number 77071..
Robert Lenhard has helped guide decision makers in corporations, trade associations, and advocacy groups on complying with the laws regulating political activity for over 20 years. As a senior member of the firm’s Election and Political Law Practice Group, he provides compliance advice relating to federal and state campaign finance, lobbying, pay-to-play, and government ethics laws. As an advocate, counselor, and regulator, Mr. Lenhard brings a depth of experience on matters that involve legal as well as political risk.
Bob led Covington’s representation of the Biden for President campaign, the Super PAC supporting President Obama’s re-election, as well as several prominent professional sports leagues, pharmaceutical manufacturers, technology companies, advocacy groups, and trade associations.
Prior to joining the firm in 2008, Mr. Lenhard served as Chairman of the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in 2007 and Vice Chairman of the agency in 2006, during which time the agency handled over 10 major rulemakings, had among its most productive years in enforcement and audit, and adopted several reforms to the enforcement process. Mr. Lenhard also led the Presidential Transition Team that reviewed the FEC for the incoming Obama administration in 2008-2009.
Mr. Lenhard is frequently quoted in the press, has lectured at major law schools, and Before his service to the FEC, Mr. Lenhard provided legal advice to labor organizations active in the political process at the federal, state, and local levels. Mr. Lenhard also was involved in litigation in the Florida trial and appellate courts over the counting of absentee ballots in Seminole County, Florida in 2000.
Robert Lenhard is a member of the firm’s Election and Political Law Practice Group and advises corporations, trade associations, not-for-profit organizations, and high-net-worth individuals on compliance with federal and state campaign finance, lobbying, and government ethics laws.
Mr. Lenhard routinely assists clients in establishing and operating federal and state PACs, compliance programs associated with campaign finance and pay-to-play laws; advises advocacy groups and their donors; conducts compliance trainings and audits of federal and state lobbying and political programs; and counsels clients on compliance with congressional gift and travel rules. According to Chambers, sources report: "He is strategic and always sees the big picture. He is a great person who provides excellent non-legal counsel as well."
Successfully defended a former candidate in an FEC enforcement matter that alleged an improper $2.5m loan from family members had been used in the election.
Successfully obtained an SEC exemption for an investment firm under the agency’s pay-to-play rules.
Provided advice to Michigan gubernatorial candidate Abdul el Sayed, including during challenge to his eligibility for office.
Led an investigation for a member of Congress into potentially improper fundraising activity.
Represented several high net worth individuals during investigations of their campaign fundraising and related activities.
Represented several consumer-oriented technology companies in understanding the regulator regime affecting fundraising and political speech.
Served as an expert witness for John Edwards’ criminal defense.
Successfully represented a Fortune 50 company accused of violating the ban on government contractors making contributions to influence a federal election after it contributed to a Super PAC.
Successfully obtained an FEC advisory opinion allowing an Internet company to direct a portion of customer’s purchase rebated toward political contributions.
Provided counsel on due diligence and integration of political programs to several corporations during mergers and acquisition.
Back
