Big “I” CEO Charles Symington Named Top Trade Lobbyist by The Hill

A Strong Voice for Independent Agents on Capitol Hill

Advocacy often happens behind the scenes, but every so often the broader policy world takes notice. That is exactly what happened when Charles Symington, president and CEO of the Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, known as the Big “I,” was named by The Hill as one of Washington, D.C.’s top trade association lobbyists for 2025.

For the insurance industry, the recognition carries particular weight. Among more than 1,800 nominations across sectors, the Big “I” stood out as the only property and casualty insurance agents organization to earn a place on the list. It is a signal that independent agents are not only present in federal conversations, but are being heard.

“This recognition reflects the collective work of independent agents across the country who are deeply engaged in protecting and strengthening our industry,”
Charles Symington, President and CEO, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America

Why This Recognition Matters to the Insurance Industry

Trade associations often compete for attention in Washington, but influence is measured by outcomes, not appearances. Under Symington’s leadership, the Big “I” has built a reputation for pairing credibility with consistency. Lawmakers know the organization shows up informed, prepared, and focused on practical solutions that reflect how insurance agencies actually operate.

That credibility has translated into meaningful legislative progress. The Big “I” and its federal government affairs team, including senior leaders such as Nathan Riedel, have helped advance major tax relief measures benefiting independent agencies and state associations. These efforts directly affect agency balance sheets, succession planning, and long term stability, especially for small and mid sized firms navigating rising costs and regulatory complexity.

“Independent agents bring real world insight to policy discussions, and that perspective resonates on Capitol Hill,”
Nathan Riedel, Senior Vice President of Federal Government Affairs, Big “I”

Advocacy Beyond Legislation

The Big “I” approach to advocacy extends beyond individual bills. The organization maintains active relationships with congressional leadership, regularly participates in steering committees, and engages policymakers early in the legislative process. This steady presence helps ensure that insurance issues are understood before decisions are made.

A key part of that influence is InsurPac, the Big “I” political action committee. Consistently ranked among the leading PACs representing insurance agents and small businesses, InsurPac gives independent agents a unified voice in supporting candidates who understand the value of a competitive, independent distribution system.

Key Areas of Impact for Independent Agencies

The Big “I” advocacy agenda reflects the day to day realities agencies face. While the priorities evolve with each Congress, recent efforts have centered on:

• Tax policy reform that supports agency growth, employee retention, and long term ownership transitions

A Consistent Seat at the Table

As regulatory expectations expand across property and casualty lines, from data security to consumer disclosures, having a knowledgeable advocate in Washington is no longer optional. It is essential. The Big “I” recognition by The Hill reinforces what many in the insurance industry already know. Independent agents have a respected, effective champion ensuring their perspective remains part of the national policy conversation.

“Our goal is simple. Make sure independent agents can continue to serve their clients, grow their businesses, and compete on a level playing field,”
Charles Symington, President and CEO, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America

For independent agencies watching regulatory change accelerate, that steady voice in Washington remains one of the industry’s most valuable assets.