C. Towner French

About Towner

Towner advises a diverse portfolio of clients on a broad spectrum of legislative issues, in a wide range of industry sectors, including health care, defense & aerospace, financial services, tax, transportation, natural resources, and foreign policy. Towner has a background in building and representing large coalitions. Before joining the firm, Towner was a partner at Capitol Counsel LLC, where he built a reliable portfolio of clients with matters before Congress and multiple Administrations. He previously served for nearly 15 years as a legislative and process specialist in the House of Representatives, most recently for House Republican leadership.

Before beginning his career in private practice, Towner served as the deputy staff director of the House Committee on Rules. Under Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas), he led coalition efforts on behalf of the Rules Committee as liaison with leadership offices and a diverse range of key private stakeholder interests. Serving as the primary staff contact for members of Congress and congressional staff to the Rules Committee, he worked to promote critical legislation and establish a dynamic strategic process.

His extensive knowledge of the legislative process resulted in the passage of the Stephen Beck, Jr. ABLE Act, a bill promoting self-reliance and personal growth of persons with disabilities by authorizing new, dynamic ways for their families to save for their future.

In addition to his work for the Rules Committee, Towner developed strong bipartisan relationships through years of work for members of Congress from key state delegations, including Texas, Florida, and Illinois.

Towner previously served as the chief of staff for Chairman Pete Sessions, where he served as the primary liaison between Chairman Sessions and the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC). In his official capacity, he managed a diverse staff while maintaining primary responsibility for health care policy.

Prior to joining Chairman Sessions, Towner worked as the chief parliamentarian of the House Committee on Homeland Security. In that role, he served to direct legislative strategy and committee process for then-Chairman Peter King (R-N.Y.).

Towner spent nine years with Congressman Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R-Fla.) as his chief of staff and legislative director. French’s years of experience within the Florida delegation made him a trusted adviser on a diverse portfolio of legislative issues, including health care, appropriations, transportation, telecommunications, and energy.

He began his service on Capitol Hill as an aide for Congresswoman Judy Biggert (R-Ill.).

In addition to his work with the NRCC, Towner has worked on numerous high-profile congressional campaigns. He is an experienced hand at the intersection between policy and politics and possesses the ability to create and rally coalitions to successful outcomes.

Towner received a B.A. in political science and a certificate in business markets and management, both from Duke University. He is a member of the group’s senior leadership team.