Mark M. Palmer

Mark Palmer’s practice is concentrated in the biofuels, renewable energy, clean tech, and public policy arenas, where he has a strong background in authorizations, appropriations, and tax policy matters.  Mr. Palmer's experience on Capitol Hill and comprehensive knowledge of the legislative process and the mechanics of the Executive Branch, uniquely qualify him to advise clients on legislation and policy strategy, coalition building, and project execution through practical problem solving.

Professional Background

Mr. Palmer formerly worked in the Office of the Secretary at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), where he served the Farm Service Agency (FSA) as a Senior Advisor and was Director of the Office of External Affairs. While at USDA, Mr. Palmer coordinated agriculture and energy policy messaging for FSA with the White House, presented Agency policies and represented Secretary Vilsack on Capitol Hill, and formulated the Agency’s legislative program with the Office of the Secretary. He also developed complex legislative and communications strategies, such as the 2008 Farm Bill implementation, and provided specialized advice to congressional committees in both the Senate and the House. In addition, Mr. Palmer was responsible for developing and executing key policy objectives and analyzing legislation affecting program operations in support of USDA goals.

Prior to his work at USDA, Mr. Palmer was Chief Policy Advisor to the Chair of the House Committee on Small Business, Representative Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY-12); a Legislative Assistant to Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL); the Special Projects Liaison to Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and held senior policy positions with the National Corn Growers Association and the American Soybean Association.

Government Service

Director of the Office of External Affairs and Senior Advisor, Farm Services Agency, U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2009 - 2011

Chief Policy Advisor, Committee on Small Business, U.S. House of Representatives, 2007-2009

Legislative Assistant, U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), 2001-2003

Legislative Correspondent, Committee on Governmental Affairs, U.S. Senate, 1999-2001

Specials Projects Liaison, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), 1996-1999

Speaking Engagements

• Ethanol Industry 101, June 4, 2012, Co-Located at the International Fuel Ethanol Workshop and Expo
• National Biodiesel Conference & Expo 2012, February 7, 2012

News

• Van Ness Feldman's Mark Palmer Comments in National Journal on the 2012 Farm Bill
• Van Ness Feldman's Mark Palmer Quoted in Quincy Herald-Whig on Funding for Lock and Dam Improvements
• Van Ness Feldman Hires USDA Senior Advisor, Furthers Capabilities in Biofuels, Clean Energy and Public Policy