Tristan Southard

Tristan Southard

Director of Legislative Strategy
  • Merchant McIntyre Associates
  • 1634 I Street NW, Suite 200 Washington, DC 20006
  • (202) 869-5220

Tristan leverages his extensive experience working in the Congress to help clients achieve their legislative and federal funding objectives.

Having previously served as a senior Congressional aide, Tristan now helps MM’s clients navigate the annual appropriations process, produce award-worthy Congressionally Directed Spending requests, and secure significant federal grant funding. He also helps clients achieve their legislative and advocacy goals by planning and implementing successful strategies while managing relationships with Members of Congress, Congressional personal staff, Congressional Committee staff, and Executive Branch officials.

"Tristan's passion and experience in public service translates perfectly to Merchant McIntyre's mission to serve organizations that serve people."

Prior to joining MM, Tristan served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to Congressman John Katko (NY-24, retired), then Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee. In this role, Tristan oversaw bipartisan legislative victories, including the passage of legislation related to workforce participation, emergency management, and economic development.  Tristan also helped manage a highly successful Congressionally Directed Spending program that delivered significant funding for many different local governments and nonprofit organizations.

Prior to his time with Congressman Katko, Tristan worked for Congresswoman Elise M. Stefanik (NY-21), a senior member of House Republican Leadership.

Tristan is originally from Upstate New York. Outside of work, Tristan enjoys spending time with his wife and building his resume as a self-proclaimed “movie buff.”  Tristan’s favorite movie is the 1981 classic, Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Expertise:

  • Legislative Strategy

  • Advocacy

  • Federal Appropriations

  • Transportation

  • Infrastructure

  • Emergency Management

  • Public Safety

Education:

  • B.A., George Mason University