About Us
In the vast landscape of the governmental consulting industry, one name has been creating ripples of anticipation and excitement – Obsidian Advocacy Group (OAG). Founded by a 25-year political veteran, OAG provides its clients with a wealth of experience, expertise and effectiveness. Our team has forged strong bipartisan relationships that provide us with a measurable edge in maximizing the success of our clients.
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At OAG, we understand the intricacies and complexities of navigating state and local government bureaucracies. We are committed to assisting our esteemed roster of clients in achieving their objectives and exceeding expectations. We understand that effective advocacy requires not only a keen understanding of the issues but also the ability to navigate the corridors of power and influence.
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Our commitment to excellence is reflected in everything we do. From the moment you engage with OAG, you can expect results representative of an elevated level of advocacy. Whether you are a corporation seeking to influence policy or a non-profit organization looking for additional financial resources, OAG is here to guide you through the intricate maze of the governmental landscape. We believe in the power of collaboration and tailor our strategies to suit a client’s unique needs, ensuring that together, we can achieve remarkable results.
OAG Vision
At OAG, we see ourselves as a trusted partner with our clients, providing tailored solutions and insights to demystify the policy-making process. Leveraging our expertise and deep understanding of the intricacies of the governmental arena, we guide our clients as they navigate the complexities of today's rapidly evolving political landscape. Moreover, we help our clients take an idea or mere concept and transform it into an attainable reality. Through our unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration, we are driven to revolutionize the business of governmental consulting.
OAG Mission
Our mission is to become a trusted partner with our clients by creating innovative advocacy solutions that empower them with knowledge, resources and relationships to seamlessly navigate the political landscape and achieve consistent success.
The OAG Difference
At the core of our approach is a commitment to fostering trust, exemplifying ethical behavior, and embracing accountability.
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We believe in the power of collaboration and partnership.
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We work closely with our clients to understand their unique goals and challenges.
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Our approach is not one-size-fits-all; instead, we provide personalized and customized solutions that address the individual circumstances of each client.
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We empower our clients with the tools and resources to navigate the complexities of the governmental landscape.
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We are committed to maintaining the highest ethical standards, ensuring transparency, and safeguarding the public interest.
Meet the Founder
Tyrone D. Sanders Jr., Esq. is the visionary leader of Obsidian Advocacy Group. With over 25 years of rich experience in political, corporate, and legal spheres, Tyrone has shaped OAG into a leading force in the governmental consulting arena, expertly navigating complex political landscapes and driving client success across various sectors.
Tyrone D. Sanders Jr., Esq.
Founder & Managing Director
Tyrone is the founder and managing director of one of the most anticipated market entrants into the competitive governmental consulting landscape, Obsidian Advocacy Group. He has over 25 years of professional experience navigating the inner workings of federal, state and local political arenas. Sanders’ political experience, corporate management background, and legal training makes him an invaluable asset in representing the firm’s roster of clients. While Tyrone represents a diverse group of client interests, areas of specialization include(s): healthcare, appropriations, environmental sustainability, energy, education, casino gaming, fund development for non-profits and business development. Mr. Sanders is a native of Detroit, Michigan. He graduated from Michigan State University, with a B.A. in Telecommunications and specialization in policy and regulation. Tyrone served his country as a member of the United States Army Reserve, where he was awarded the Army Achievement Medal and honorably discharged in 1997. Later, Sanders earned his law degree from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School and has been a licensed and practicing attorney since 1999. Prior to founding OAG, Sanders enjoyed a distinguished 20-year career as a partner at one of the state’s premier governmental consulting firms, Public Affairs Associates, Inc., where he now serves in an "Of Counsel" role. Also, he served as Vice President for External Affairs for SBC Communications (currently AT&T), where he was responsible for planning and directing the company’s legislative, civic and community engagement activities throughout Michigan. The foundation for Sanders’ impressive career began while serving as Legislative Aide to then State Senator Virgil Clark Smith, learning the intricacies of organized politics and the legislative process. In 2017, Tyrone received a Special Congressional Tribute from the Michigan delegation. Also, Sanders was highlighted by Crain's Detroit Business as one of the "50 Names to Know in Lobbying" in its 2020 and 2022 editions.
Our Partners in Success
OAG clients get the benefit of additional advocacy resources provided through strategic alliances with these powerhouse Michigan firms.
Accomplishments
Accomplishments
2020
October 23, 2020 Tyrone D. Sanders Jr., Esq. Partner, Public Affairs Associates Why he should be on your speed dial: Tyrone is a 23-year veteran lobbyist at one of Lansing’s oldest lobbying firms who specializes in gaming law and regulations, telecommunications and corporate law and state and local governmental procurement. As MGM Grand Detroit’s lead external lobbyist, Tyrone helped the casino operator win passage of new laws authorizing sports and online betting in Michigan. His career highlights include lobbying on behalf of the Ontario Truckers Association and Transport Canada to secure an agreement to construct the Gordie Howe International Bridge. He also was the lead lobbyist for a coalition that convinced the Legislature to require health insurance companies to cover autism therapies. Tyrone’s clients include DTE Energy, Kellogg Company, Waste Management, the Ascension Michigan health care system, the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, the Wayne County Airport Authority and the Oakland County Commission. Tyrone is an attorney and has been with PAA since 2004 after six years of lobbying for two AT&T predecessors, SBC Communications and Ameritech.
2022
May 31, 2022 Tyrone D. Sanders Jr., Esq. Partner, Public Affairs Associates Why he should be on your speed dial: Tyrone is a 25-year veteran lobbyist at one of Lansing’s oldest lobbying firms who specializes in gaming law and regulations, telecommunications and corporate law and state and local governmental procurement. As MGM Grand Detroit’s lead external lobbyist, Tyrone helped the casino operator win passage of new laws authorizing sports and online betting in Michigan. His career highlights include lobbying on behalf of the Ontario Truckers Association and Transport Canada to secure an agreement to construct the Gordie Howe International Bridge. He also was the lead lobbyist for a coalition that convinced the Legislature to require health insurance companies to cover autism therapies. Tyrone’s clients include C.L. Moore & Associates Inc., DTE Energy Co., Detroit Manufacturing Systems, H&R Block, Kellogg Company, Waste Management, the Ascension Michigan health care system, the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network, Professional Psychological & Psychiatric Services Inc., the Wayne County Airport Authority and the Oakland County Commission. Tyrone is an attorney and has been with PAA since 2004 after six years of lobbying for two AT&T predecessors, SBC Communications and Ameritech.