Mara Sheldon

Mara Sheldon is a senior policy advisor in Holland & Knight's Denver office. Ms. Sheldon focuses on legislative and regulatory matters involving renewable energy, environment and natural resources, healthcare, cannabis and hemp, tourism and hospitality, and banking and financial services.

Ms. Sheldon represents states, municipalities, private sector companies and nonprofit organizations, advising on complex issues at the intersection of public policy, appropriations, regulatory compliance and strategic communications.

With more than three decades of experience working with federal, state and local governments, Ms. Sheldon brings deep insight into governmental processes and intergovernmental dynamics. Her work with the National Governors Association (NGA) – where she serves as the state of Colorado's federal liaison – positions her as a trusted resource for clients navigating federal appropriations, issues related to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and state and federal engagement. She works closely with the administration – with experience from both the Trump and Biden Administrations – as well as state governors.

Ms. Sheldon began her career at age 21 as one of the youngest press secretaries ever on Capitol Hill and went on to serve as communications director to several members of U.S. Congress, including the late John D. Dingell, the former chair and ranking member of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce, as well as Nydia M. Velázquez, the current ranking member of the House Committee on Small Business. During her time on Capitol Hill, she supported major legislative efforts focused on healthcare, environmental and natural resources issues, water policy, banking and financial services.

Prior to joining Holland & Knight, Ms. Sheldon was a principal at a global law firm focusing on federal, state and local issues. Earlier, Ms. Sheldon served as communications director and spokesperson for the successful gubernatorial campaign of Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. Throughout the last two decades, she has also held senior roles in national, state and local political campaigns, including presidential races, statewide elections and grassroots ballot initiatives.

In the community, Ms. Sheldon serves on the boards of directors for a variety of civic and nonprofit organizations.

Ms. Sheldon regularly writes and comments on federal and state policy issues, particularly those related to cannabis and hemp. Her articles have appeared in Politico, The Denver Post, Colorado Politics, Law360, Cannabis Law Report and Cannabis Law Journal, among others. She frequently is a recurring guest on podcasts covering cannabis regulatory developments.