Actum Welcomes Modern Advocacy, Expanding New York Presence and Strengthening Government Relations Capabilities
NEW YORK, NY — April 28, 2026 — Actum today announced that Modern Advocacy, a New York-based government relations and political consulting firm founded by veteran strategist Joe Rossi, is joining the firm. Rossi will join Actum as a Managing Director, further strengthening the firm’s growing New York practice.
Founded in 2025, Modern Advocacy quickly established itself as a respected presence in New York, advising clients across regulated industries including healthcare, infrastructure, and cannabis policy. Rossi has long been a key player in Albany and across Upstate New York, known for delivering results through a combination of strategic insight and disciplined execution.
In 2025, Rossi served as campaign manager for Sharon Owens, leading a historic and decisive victory that demonstrated his ability to build winning coalitions and execute at the highest level of local politics.
“Joe is an effective and well-connected government relations professional in New York,” said Michael McKeon, Partner at Actum. “His ability to operate at both the state and local levels, combined with his deep policy knowledge and political instincts, makes him a strong addition to our team as we continue to grow our presence in New York.”
The addition of Modern Advocacy enhances Actum’s footprint in Albany and Central New York and deepens the firm’s capabilities in key sectors, including cannabis regulation and other highly regulated industries.
“Joining Actum is a natural next step,” said Rossi. “I built Modern Advocacy to deliver high-impact, client-focused government relations. Being part of Actum allows us to scale that work, bring more resources to clients, and operate with a broader platform. There is real alignment in how we approach strategy, execution, and results, and I am excited about what we are going to build together.”
Rossi will continue to lead client engagements while helping to grow Actum’s New York operations and expand specialized practice areas.
Clients of Modern Advocacy will experience seamless continuity, with expanded access to Actum’s national platform, integrated communications capabilities, and full-service public affairs support.
About Actum
Actum is a global consulting firm built to solve complex problems for our clients around theworld. Our capabilities in strategy, management, execution, communications, government relations, storytelling and narrative development, digital and social media, advocacy mobilization, special groups, political consulting, public opinion research, and data, are all best in class because our people are best in class. For our clients, we provide seasoned and experienced advisors and partners, from the highest levels of government, media, business, advocacy, politics, technology, and special groups, who lead teams of subject matter experts to deliver exceptional, measurable value and outcomes. www.actumllc.com
About Modern Advocacy
Modern Advocacy is a New York-based government relations and political consulting firm specializing in state and municipal advocacy, regulatory strategy, and campaign execution. Founded by Joe Rossi, the firm is known for its results-driven approach and deep understanding of New York’s political landscape.
