Julia Donnelly is a seasoned government relations and campaign strategist with more than 16 years of experience shaping public policy, navigating complex political landscapes, and delivering results for clients across sectors.
Julia joins Public Strategies from Almeida Public Affairs, where she served as vice president for nearly a decade, advising a diverse portfolio of clients on legislative, regulatory, and political strategy.
Julia’s work has driven landmark achievements, including securing Minnesota’s first nonferrous Permit to Mine, passing the Refinery Safety Act, advancing Universal School Meals, and expanding critical prevailing wage laws. She has also served as senior adviser and general consultant on several high-profile, successful statewide races.
Previously, Julia was legislative and political director for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local #49, where she led legislative and electoral strategies across three states, strengthened ties between labor and business, and delivered major infrastructure and worker protection wins. Earlier in her career, she managed then-Minnesota Congressman Keith Ellison’s political operations, boosting turnout and expanding engagement with underrepresented communities.
Julia holds a B.A. in political science and literature from the University of Minnesota.