Strategic. Creative.
Sophisticated.
We’re here to help you win.
Cobalt Public Affairs works at the intersection of public affairs, politics and crisis communications to create sophisticated strategies that deliver results. We leverage traditional and digital media, advertising, thought leadership and other tools to ensure your voice is heard.We provide senior level counsel and develop tailored strategies and messaging to help our clients influence public opinion as they navigate complex political, legislative and business challenges.
Key Capabilities
Issue Advocacy
We design and execute bespoke communications strategies to condition the environment to achieve legislative, regulatory or executive action. We help you achieve positive outcomes and prevent harmful legislation from becoming law. Litigation Support
Protect your organization during high-profile litigation by shaping the narrative with media, opinion leaders and the public. We specialize in high-profile business litigation including employment law, antitrust, mergers and acquisitions and government investigations.Message Development
Using data and considering today’s political and social environment, we develop creative and compelling messages as the foundation for everything we do.Reputation & Crisis Management
Promote and protect your reputation by preparing for potential risks. We quickly and strategically position your organization to weather difficult times.Media Relations
Our relationships with local, state and national media are unparalleled. We ensure your voice is heard in today’s crowded environment.Digital Public Affairs
Advocate and win using cutting edge digital tools.Our Team
Meet Amy
Managing Partner
Amy Thoma Tan is an experienced strategist with nearly 20 years of experience at the intersection of communications, politics and public affairs. She has created strategic campaigns for individuals and organizations large and small, leveraging traditional and digital media, advertising, grassroots and other tools.Amy has led crisis communications, litigation communications, advocacy and reputation management for California’s two largest healthcare systems, Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health. In these roles she served as a senior counselor in the areas of public affairs, litigation support, issues and crisis management and corporate reputation. During the first 10 years of her career in California politics Amy led communications, media relations and social media for a variety of corporate, nonprofit, association and government clients. She also built and managed coalitions and led communications strategy for statewide and local ballot initiative and issue advocacy campaigns. Amy also worked in senior communications roles in the California State Legislature and in the Secretary of State.As a trusted source and frequent spokesperson, Amy has been quoted by the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CalMatters, Los Angeles Times, CNN, MSNBC, Kaiser Health News, Politico, the Sacramento Bee and others. Amy has a degree in Political Science from UCLA. She lives in Sacramento with her family and is on the board of directors for the Sacramento Children’s Home.
Meet Chad
Of Counsel
Chad Mayes advises clients on issues spanning the intersection of public policy and industry. With more than two decades of experience in the public sector, he brings a unique perspective and unparalleled expertise to the firm’s clients.Mayes began his career as a financial advisor and small business owner. He then served as Mayor and Council Member at the Town of Yucca Valley, and as a board member of the San Bernardino Associated Governments and the League of California Cities. He later served as Chief of Staff to the Chair of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors.In 2014, he was elected to the California State Assembly, representing the 42nd District in the Inland Empire. While in the Assembly he served as Assembly Republican Leader.On statewide issues, Mayes played a key role in crafting and passing some of California’s most significant policy reforms, including California’s landmark Cap and Trade Law, the SB 901 Commission that reformed wildfire response and mitigation efforts, and the bill that created the California Wildfire Fund, which protected ratepayers, held utility executives accountable, and helped victims regain their lives.Mayes is a graduate of Liberty University and currently resides in Rancho Mirage with his wife, Dr. Andis Almasi Mayes and daughter, Mila.
Meet Claire
Account Coordinator
Claire Latimer is an Account Coordinator at Cobalt Public Affairs. In her role, Claire uses her strong writing and analytical skills to support the firm’s healthcare and litigation support clients. Claire has previously worked as a legislative analyst, legal assistant and political fundraising support associate.Claire has a degree in Creative Writing, as well as a minor in Business Administration from Chapman University. She currently lives in Sacramento with her family. 