Heartland Strategy Group turns political relationships and hard-won field experience into results — in the statehouse, in the community, and along the right-of-way.
Consulting, issue management, and advocacy from a group that has held office, run campaigns, and represented Fortune 500 companies — often all in the same year.
Guiding clients through agency rulemaking, permitting and compliance — translating regulatory complexity into a clear path forward.
Agencies / CompliancePolitical and ballot-measure campaigns run by a team that has managed winning races and knows what it takes to qualify, organize and turn out support.
Elections / PetitionsFull-service campaigns that move policy and shape public opinion — built on research, message discipline and a clear plan from day one.
Strategy / ResearchIdentifying and organizing the allies who move an issue — connecting individuals, associations and local leaders into a coalition with staying power.
Coalitions / AlliancesActivating the voices that matter most to decision-makers — on-the-ground field work that turns local support into real legislative and regulatory outcomes.
Field / MobilizationHands-on damage-prevention and public-awareness training for operators, contractors and first responders — keeping crews, landowners and communities safe along the line.
Right-of-Way / Compliance
Barry Rubin co-founded Heartland Strategy Group in 2013 with Tim Becker and former U.S. Senator and Nebraska Governor Ben Nelson, bringing more than two decades at the intersection of business, government and politics. He has advised Fortune 500 companies, associations, health systems and local governments through high-stakes legislative, regulatory and reputational challenges — spanning government relations, campaigns, issue management, coalition building and grassroots advocacy. Before Heartland, Barry founded Red State Strategies, an Omaha-based issue management firm. Known for building relationships across the political spectrum, he's trusted by clients for his judgment, discretion and consistent results.
The best work happens when trust comes first. We've partnered with corporations, associations, and public institutions across the Midwest to solve complex communications challenges, launch ambitious initiatives, and build lasting momentum.
Whether it's a statehouse fight, a siting battle, or a story that needs to be told correctly — tell us where you stand, and we'll tell you how to move forward.