How to Build Effective Campaigns: The Case Study of House Speaker Mike Johnson and the $61 Billion Supplemental
What does it take to influence decision-makers at the highest level? This event explores a powerful real-world advocacy case study around Mike Johnson and the passage of the $61 billion supplemental for Ukraine.
From relationship mapping to understanding the motivations of key actors, the session highlights practical strategies used to break through political gridlock. The campaign combined unconventional and high-impact tactics — from engaging basketball players to symbolic visuals like a firefighter helmet from Ukraine, alongside billboards and outreach through Ukrainian pastors — all designed to capture attention where it matters most.
The discussion will provide insights into how advocacy groups can effectively engage policymakers, shape narratives, and drive results in complex political environments.
Speaker: Melinda Haring
Melinda Haring is a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Eurasia Center and a senior advisor at Razom for Ukraine, where she leads advocacy and partnership initiatives. A respected nonprofit leader and commentator, she has spent her career supporting Ukrainian reform through roles at organizations such as Freedom House and the National Democratic Institute. She holds a graduate degree from Georgetown University and serves on the boards of several prominent foundations in Kyiv and Ivano-Frankivsk.
Event Details:
📅 Date: 24 June 2026
🕓 Time: 2000 CET / 1400 EST
