Statewide Public Affairs expands Downstate presence
Sara Castelli, seasoned campaign and political staffer, joins firm’s New York City / Long Island team
ALBANY, NY — One of the fastest growing lobbying firms in the state just got bigger, as Statewide Public Affairs has added Sara Castelli to its team. Castelli will serve as the firm’s Director of Government and Community Affairs for New York City and Long Island.
Castelli brings extensive experience in government, legislative affairs, and high-level political campaigns, having worked across New York City, Long Island, and statewide. In her new role, she will manage relationships with elected officials, community leaders, and key stakeholders while advancing client priorities across a wide range of public policy and regulatory matters.
“Sara’s depth of experience, political instincts, and ability to build meaningful coalitions make her an outstanding addition to our Downstate team,” said Christopher J. Duryea, Managing Partner at Statewide Public Affairs. “She understands how government works, how communities engage with public policy, and how to deliver real results for clients in complex political environments. Additions like Sara will be vital to our team as we continue our growth and positive trajectory.”
Prior to joining Statewide Public Affairs, Castelli served in roles within the New York City Council and the New York State Assembly, where she developed a strong foundation in public policy analysis, constituent services, and intergovernmental affairs. She has also played senior leadership roles on numerous highly competitive political campaigns, contributing to strategic planning, operations, field organizing, and stakeholder coordination.
Most recently, Castelli managed and helped lead winning campaigns at the local, city, state, and congressional levels, overseeing large teams, coordinating with labor unions and advocacy organizations, and executing large-scale voter contact and community engagement efforts. Her campaign experience includes work across New York City, Long Island, Westchester, and five other states, consistently delivering victories in fast-paced and high-stakes environments.
“Sara brings a strong combination of policy expertise and political experience, and has the skills to effectively navigate the complex legislative, budgetary, and regulatory processes in New York City and on Long Island,” said Jim Quent, Partner at Statewide Public Affairs and head of the firm’s New York City and Long Island practice. “At Statewide, we pride ourselves on being a boots-on-the-ground team, and Sara will be a great fit as someone who can manage a diverse range of issues while building meaningful relationships and delivering results.”
Known for her ability to navigate complex political landscapes, Castelli has built a reputation for aligning public, private, and community interests to advance policy goals. At Statewide, she will play a key role in shaping advocacy strategies, strengthening local partnerships, and expanding the firm’s Downstate footprint.
Castelli earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Sociology from Hofstra University. Born in Capri, Italy, and raised in Connecticut, she brings a unique and diverse perspective to the firm’s growing team.
###
About Statewide Public Affairs, Inc.
Statewide Public Affairs, Inc. is a full-service government relations and issue management firm based in Albany, New York City and Buffalo, NY. We provide governmental access to diverse interests including businesses large and small, industry trade associations, private equity firms, entrepreneurs, universities, local governments and not-for-profits. Partners and staff at Statewide possess over 100 years of experience providing government affairs services in New York.
Now in our 13th year, Statewide prides itself on delivering the highest level of service, expertise and integrity for our clients.
