ABOUT US
MATT SALMON - Co-Chairman
Matt brings extensive experience in international affairs and national policy from his time as a five-term U.S. House of Representatives member and chair of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific. As a special advisor at Arizona State University, he uses his deep knowledge of global relations to enhance the university’s international programs. His leadership and expertise in fostering international partnerships have made him a key asset in advancing the university’s global initiatives and reputation. He is a fierce defender of the Constitution, conservative principles, and the freedoms we enjoy.
Jonathan Lines - Co-Chairman
Jonathan Lines is a Yuma County Supervisor, member of the Arizona - Mexico Commission, and business owner. As a Supervisor, Jonathan has planned and executed dozens of briefings on border security and U.S.-Mexico border visits with governors, members of Congress, administration officials, business leaders, and law enforcement officers wanting to see the crisis for themselves. As a result, Jonathan has become a well-known and recognized border security expert.
Jonathan was raised in Yuma, where his family has been since the 1930s. The family originally settled in Pima, Safford, and Thatcher, Arizona, in the 1880s and were involved in ranching and mining. Jonathan is now the GM-President of a roofing & Insulation company and a partner in Yuma's premier medical and professional plaza. He served a 2-year mission in Argentina and Uruguay and speaks fluent Spanish. Jonathan is married to Rosalie, and they have 11 children.
Rudy COTA III - Executive Director
Rudy has nearly a decade of public service and government affairs experience and has been privileged to work for three reputable Members of Congress in the United States House of Representatives, where he worked on justice, defense, veterans, and foreign policy issues.
During his time working for the House, he became adept at turning intricate policy landscapes into relatable narratives, and gained a reputation for fostering impactful relationships with government bodies, community leaders, and important stakeholders.
As a fourth generation Arizonan, he and his family have seen the immense growth and prosperity that has blessed the great State of Arizona. He is proud to serve his community and his fellow Arizonans and hopes to see Arizona’s continued success.
Rudy is a graduate of the School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University, where he solidified his passion for service. He and his wife live in Gilbert and welcomed their first child, and fifth-generation Arizonan, to the world in August 2024.
Matt Kenney - Advisor
Matt Kenney, a Founding Partner of Echo Canyon Consulting, is a specialist in public affairs with nearly a decade of experience. He has led national, statewide, and local political campaigns as well as corporate public affairs projects. Matt and his team have successfully assisted corporations, associations, and trade groups in creating effective communications and advocacy campaigns on a broad range of issues.
Previously, Matt served as the executive director of a multi-million dollar independent expenditure effort to re-elect Senator John McCain in 2016 before becoming the Executive Director of the Arizona Republican Party. During his tenure, Matt oversaw three special elections and managed the RNC’s National GOTV Program for Arizona, demonstrating his capability in steering significant political efforts.
Since transitioning from political campaigns, Matt has been a lead consultant on advocacy initiatives for veteran and military reforms, public safety causes, energy policies, and numerous other issues. His expertise in navigating complex public affairs challenges has made him a valuable asset to his clients, enabling them to achieve their strategic goals and effectively influence public policy.
Before his public affairs career, Matt served as a US Army Infantry Officer and is a combat veteran. He holds Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees and certificates in American Public Policy and International Studies from Arizona State University. Currently, Matt serves as a Commissioner of the Arizona Department of Veterans' Services and on the Attorney General’s Military and Veteran Families Advisory Group. He is also an active member of the Arizona Chamber of Commerce, AZ Defense and Industry Coalition, and the American Legion.
Residing in Phoenix, Arizona, Matt lives with his wife Brittany and their three children, Braiden, Eden, and Rowan. His dedication to his family, community, and country is evident in his professional accomplishments and ongoing public service.
Lorna Ferguson - Advisor
Lorna Romero Ferguson is the owner of Elevate Strategies, a communications and public affairs firm based in Phoenix, Arizona. Prior to this role, Lorna served as the Chief Strategy Officer for the Arizona Chamber Foundation and the co-founder and Executive Director of Chamber Business News. Previously, Lorna served as the Vice President of Communications and Advocacy for Molera Alvarez where she led public relations strategies and assisted with policy development and analysis. Lorna was also the Communications Director for the 2016 John McCain for U.S. Senate Campaign where she served as the Senator’s spokeswoman and developed targeted messaging for the campaign. Previously, Lorna was an Associate Director at Veridus where she focused on government affairs and public relations.
Lorna was able to further develop her policy expertise while serving as Director of Legislative Affairs for Governor Brewer, a role in which she helped spearhead cornerstone policy initiatives such as Medicaid Restoration, anti-human trafficking legislation and child-safety reform. She was also Governor Brewer’s policy advisor for commerce and economic development issues. Earlier, Lorna was the Director of Government Relations for the Arizona Chamber of Commerce & Industry, where she played a key role in enhancing the state’s business climate through education, tax, labor and regulatory reform efforts.