MINNEAPOLIS, Feb. 2, 2026 — Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, the bipartisan government relations and communications affiliate of international law firm Cozen O’Connor, today announced the addition of Bentley Graves as principal in its Minneapolis office.
“Bentley brings a wealth of experience in health care, transportation and public policy, along with a proven ability to navigate complex legislative environments,” said Howard Schweitzer, CEO of Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies. “His expertise will strengthen our Midwest team and enhance the value we deliver to clients.”
Graves joins Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies after more than a decade at the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, where he served as director of health care and transportation policy. In that role, he led policy development and advocacy efforts on behalf of more than 6,000 employers across the state, achieving bipartisan legislative successes that improved transportation infrastructure in the state and stability, transparency and choice in Minnesota’s health insurance market.
“I’m excited to join this outstanding team and contribute to work that helps clients achieve their goals,” Graves said. “I look forward to leveraging my experience to deliver meaningful results for businesses and communities throughout the region.”
Prior to his work at the chamber, Graves spent nearly eight years on Capitol Hill, serving in multiple roles, including legislative assistant, legislative director and chief of staff. His federal policy experience includes work on tax, foreign affairs and defense issues as well as federal appropriations. As chief of staff, he managed all aspects of the congressional office and served as a key liaison to business and government leaders.
Graves earned his Bachelor of Arts in political economy, cum laude, from Hillsdale College in Michigan. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of Minnesota Community Measurement and has held advisory roles with the Minnesota Departments of Transportation and Human Services and with MNsure, the state’s health insurance exchange.
“Bentley’s deep understanding of health care and transportation policy, combined with his leadership and advocacy experience, will be a tremendous asset to our clients,” said John Reich, senior principal at Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the firm.”
About Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies
Cozen O’Connor Public Strategies, an affiliate of the international law firm Cozen O’Connor, is a bipartisan government relations practice representing clients before the federal government and in cities and states throughout the country. The firm’s public strategies professionals offer a full complement of government affairs services, including legislative and executive branch advocacy, policy analysis, assistance with government procurement and funding programs, and crisis management and strategic communications. Its client base spans multiple industries, including health care, transportation, hospitality, education, construction, energy, real estate, entertainment, financial services, and insurance.
About Cozen O’Connor
Established in 1970, Cozen O’Connor has over 925 attorneys who help clients manage risk and make better business decisions. The firm counsels clients on their most sophisticated legal matters in all areas of the law, including litigation, corporate, and regulatory law. Representing a broad array of leading global corporations and middle market companies, Cozen O’Connor serves its clients’ needs through 33 offices across two continents.
Media Contact
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