Turner: A Career in Government Affairs and Political Consulting
Turner is a seasoned professional in the realms of law, academia, and political strategy. As the founder and CEO of Turner Government & Public Affairs, she has established herself as a key figure in government affairs, navigating the complex intersection of private industry and public policy.
Professional Background and Expertise
Throughout her career, Turner has leveraged her legal and academic expertise to advise various organizations. She previously served as an attorney with the Potomac Law Group and shared her knowledge as an adjunct professor at George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management.
In her capacity as a political consultant, she has provided strategic guidance to companies specializing in the manufacture of components for Lockheed Martin fighter jets. Her expertise in government lobbying—the act of attempting to influence the actions, policies, or decisions of government officials—has made her a sought-after commentator in the media.
Turner has appeared as a correspondent and expert on the Fox Business Network, focusing on Washington lobbying, and has contributed written pieces to The Huffington Post.
Political Activism and Leadership
Turner has been deeply involved in high-level political fundraising and strategy. She served on the finance committees for both Jon Corzine and Hillary Clinton. Notably, she held a leadership role as a co-chair of the Financial Committee for Ready for Hillary, a super political action committee (super PAC) designed to draft Clinton for the 2016 United States Presidential Election.
The Port Authority Appointment
In March 2017, Turner was appointed to the Board of Commissioners of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for a six-year unpaid term. This appointment followed a recommendation from New Jersey Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg, a nomination by Governor Chris Christie, and subsequent approval by the New Jersey State Senate.
| Role/Organization | Capacity | Key Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Turner Government & Public Affairs | Founder and CEO | Government Affairs |
| Potomac Law Group | Attorney | Legal Services |
| George Washington University | Adjunct Professor | Political Management |
| Ready for Hillary | Financial Committee Co-chair | 2016 Presidential Campaign |
| Port Authority of NY & NJ | Commissioner | Regional Infrastructure Oversight |
Key Facts
- Founder and CEO of Turner Government & Public Affairs.
- Former adjunct professor at George Washington University.
- Co-chair of the Financial Committee for the Ready for Hillary super PAC.
- Appointed to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey in 2017.
- Resigned from the Port Authority following a 2018 ethics violation.
Controversy and Resignation
Turner's tenure at the Port Authority ended abruptly following an incident in March 2018. During a traffic stop in Tenafly, New Jersey, police stopped a vehicle containing several individuals, including Turner's adult daughter. The vehicle was slated for impoundment because the registration had expired and the driver lacked proof of insurance.
Turner arrived at the scene and repeatedly demanded explanations from the officers. During the encounter, she identified herself as a "friend of the mayor," insisted that officers address her as "Commissioner," and mentioned that the passengers were "Ph.D. students from MIT and Yale." The interaction escalated when she told one officer to "shut the fuck up."
The incident was captured on a police cruiser's dashcam and uploaded to YouTube, leading to national coverage by outlets including The New York Times, CNBC, and CBS News. Consequently, Turner resigned from her position and was fined $1,500 by the Ethics Commission.
While Turner issued an apology and denied requesting special treatment for her daughter and her associates, a Port Authority representative stated that her conduct was "indefensible" and that the video evidence spoke for itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Turner's primary professional role?
Turner is the founder and CEO of Turner Government & Public Affairs, a firm specializing in government affairs and political consulting.
Which political campaigns has Turner supported?
She served on the finance committees for Jon Corzine and Hillary Clinton, and was a co-chair of the Financial Committee for the Ready for Hillary super PAC.
Why did Turner resign from the Port Authority?
She resigned following a widely publicized incident in Tenafly, New Jersey, where she behaved inappropriately toward police officers during a traffic stop involving her daughter.
What were the consequences of the Tenafly police incident?
Beyond her resignation from the Port Authority, Turner was fined $1,500 by the Ethics Commission.
What is Turner's academic and legal background?
She is a former attorney with the Potomac Law Group and previously served as an adjunct professor at George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management.