In the world of high-stakes politics and business, few companies have faced as much scrutiny and controversy as NSO Group, the Israeli tech firm responsible for creating the powerful Pegasus spyware. Known for its ability to infiltrate phones and gather vast amounts of data, NSO’s products have been linked to numerous human rights abuses, including surveillance on journalists, activists, and political opponents. However, as political tides shift in Washington, NSO’s lobbying efforts have also evolved—especially in its pursuit of a stronger foothold within the halls of power.
A New Approach to Lobbying
NSO’s lobbying efforts have historically been a crucial element in its strategy to maintain and expand its operations. Under the Biden administration, the company faced an uphill battle, as it had been blacklisted by the U.S. Commerce Department in response to allegations of abuse surrounding its surveillance technologies. With limited access to the American market and a significant focus on commercial spyware regulation, NSO was forced to adjust its approach.
One of the most notable changes in its strategy has been a shift away from lobbying the executive branch—particularly those in positions of power related to cybersecurity and national security. Instead, NSO has redirected its lobbying efforts towards Republican lawmakers, betting that the changing political landscape under a potential return of Donald Trump to office would prove more favorable.
In the past, NSO Group worked with several lobbying firms, some of which had strong ties to the Democratic establishment. However, it appears the company has severed or altered its relationships with several of these firms. Previously, NSO had engaged with major players such as Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP and Chartwell Strategy Group under the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), a law that requires transparency regarding lobbying efforts on behalf of foreign entities. Now, it seems the company has shifted to new consultancies, particularly Chartwell, which is now registered under the Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA), a less transparent regulatory framework. This shift suggests that NSO’s lobbying activities may become harder to track, which could be a strategic move to avoid further scrutiny.
The Power of Political Connections
One of the key elements driving NSO Group’s shift in strategy is its reliance on individuals with deep ties to Trump’s political network. Many of the consultants now working with NSO have direct or indirect connections to the former president. These individuals bring with them significant experience and access to Republican circles, making them valuable assets for a company seeking to rebuild its influence.
David Tamasi, the managing director at Chartwell Strategy, stands out among these figures. Tamasi’s history in the political realm includes his role as the DC chairman of Trump’s 2016 joint fundraising committee, through which he bundled substantial amounts of money for Trump’s campaign and the Republican National Committee (RNC). His lobbying firm has been instrumental in preparing clients for the possibility of a Trump resurgence, ensuring that NSO is well-positioned for a potential future where Trump regains political power.
Additionally, several other prominent figures with ties to the Trump administration have been involved with NSO. Bryan Lanza, a partner at Mercury Public Affairs, worked as a consultant for NSO from 2020 to 2021. Lanza, a staunch Trump ally, was deeply involved in the Trump campaign and has remained an influential figure within Republican circles. Another noteworthy figure is Michael Flynn, Trump’s former national security adviser, who was paid nearly $100,000 by NSO Group’s parent firms. Flynn, who was pardoned by Trump after pleading guilty to lying to the FBI, has recently been appointed to a West Point advisory board, further solidifying his connection to the Trump network.
Jeff Miller, a major fundraiser for Trump, also has ties to NSO. Miller was paid $170,000 by an NSO-linked company and was even spotted at Trump’s 2024 election night event at Mar-a-Lago. Meanwhile, Rod Rosenstein, former deputy attorney general under Trump, represented NSO Group in a lawsuit and played a role in justifying Trump’s controversial firing of FBI Director James Comey.
Transparency Concerns
As NSO Group continues to adapt its lobbying strategy, there are growing concerns about the company’s efforts to circumvent transparency laws. By shifting its lobbying activities under the LDA instead of FARA, NSO has moved into a regulatory space that requires less disclosure about the specific meetings and activities of its lobbyists. This makes it harder for the public and watchdog organizations to track the full extent of NSO’s influence in Washington.
While the company’s shift in lobbying focus aligns with its desire to regain access to U.S. markets, it also raises questions about accountability and transparency in the surveillance industry. If NSO succeeds in loosening its restrictions and winning back the ability to do business with American firms, it could find itself operating with less oversight and scrutiny—potentially increasing the risk of further abuses of its technology.
Looking Ahead: The Political Calculus
NSO’s future in the United States remains uncertain. With its new lobbying approach focused on a Republican resurgence, the company is clearly betting that a return to power for Trump and his allies will allow it to regain favor with American policymakers. However, the shifting political landscape means that NSO’s strategy could face both opportunities and challenges depending on the direction of future regulatory actions and public sentiment toward surveillance technology.
What is clear, however, is that NSO is not giving up on its pursuit of American market access. With its sophisticated lobbying apparatus and a roster of high-powered political connections, the company is preparing for what could be a pivotal moment in its business trajectory. As the surveillance landscape continues to evolve, NSO’s efforts to influence Washington and secure its future in the global tech industry will undoubtedly remain a topic of scrutiny—and concern.
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