Dan Smith

Senior Associate

Dan@1868PublicAffairs.com

Before joining 1868 Public Affairs, Dan served as Senior Advisor to New Jersey General Assembly Speaker Craig J. Coughlin. In this role, he wielded significant influence over pivotal legislative decisions, handled public relations, and actively participated in complex budgetary processes. Additionally, he contributed to the development of landmark legislation, showcasing his skill in navigating the intricacies of government and policy.

With expertise in political strategy, public policy formulation, and effective advocacy, Dan has become a recognized specialist in grassroots advocacy strategies for the corporate public affairs industry. Additionally, he has served on numerous boards due to his extensive knowledge of government and legislative affairs, including the Mercer County Improvement Authority, the Coalition for Patient Rights and Safe Staffing, and Mercer County Central Labor Council. Currently, he serves on the William Penn Bank Advisory Board and the Princeton Mercer Regional Chamber of Commerce.

A significant aspect of Dan's community service is his commitment to his beliefs and his desire to make a positive difference in the community. A former member of the Hamilton YMCA Advisory Board, he taught students about local, state, and federal governments in the afterschool program. Also, he was a long-time volunteer at the Joseph F. Cappello School, working with autistic children and other individuals who were intellectually disabled. The motivation behind his volunteerism goes beyond a simple act of goodwill, but also a sense of pride and an opportunity to set an example for others.

Dan has been recognized by NJBIZ, New Jersey's leading business publication, as one of the top Forty Under 40 and Top 100 New Jersey Millennials business professionals in 2023. Such recognition underscores his dynamic business acumen and strong leadership capabilities, which have been reshaping corporate affairs and public policy in New Jersey. Through his actions, Dan demonstrates that everyone is capable of making a positive contribution, regardless of their status. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Rutgers University and currently resides in Hamilton, NJ.