Political#notes: Riegle is Joining a Public Affairs Firm

Former Senate Banking Committee Chairman Donald W. Riegle is trying his hand at public affairs. The Michigan Democrat, who retired with the last Congress, is joining Shandwick Public Affairs as chairman of its executive committee.

Allen Finch, the firm's chief executive officer, said the former senator would divide his time between Washington and Michigan, where he will maintain his residence.

Mr. Fitch said Mr. Riegle will work on client development, public affairs, and legislative strategy, but will not be involved in lobbying.

In addition to his work at Shandwick, Mr. Riegle is joining the faculty of the Michigan State University School of Business as an adjunct professor.

With the announcement that Sen. Bennett Johnston will not seek reelection next year, a prominent member of the House Banking Committee's becomes a potential candidate to succeed the Louisiana Democrat.

Rep. Richard Baker, R-La., new chairman of the subcommittee on capital markets, securities, and government sponsored enterprises, said last week that while he is keeping his options open, he isn't making any plans to run.

"There's too much to do," he said, alluding to the Republican takeover of Congress. "I would hate for our attention to be diverted to political issues when there is so much to do on substantive issues."

For reprint and licensing requests for this article, click here.
MORE FROM AMERICAN BANKER