Meet The Team

President & Head Lobbyist

Matt Markee

Matt Markee has been a cornerstone of Markee & Associates since 1997, bringing a unique blend of institutional knowledge and strategic insight to the firm. A graduate of Western Oregon State, Matt began his career in family crisis counseling—a background that gifted him with the exceptional listening and negotiation skills he now uses to bridge gaps in the Capitol.

Matt provides authoritative leadership across all branches of government. His expertise includes:

Executive & Legislative Advocacy: Maintaining deep, collaborative ties with state leaders and agency heads.
Session Leadership: Serving as a tireless advocate during legislative sessions through testimony and direct negotiation.
Political Consulting: Providing expert analysis and strategy for regional campaign cycles.

Matt’s approach combines a mastery of the political process with a person-first philosophy, ensuring our clients’ voices are heard and their goals are achieved.

Lobbyist

Thomas Cuomo

Thomas began his political career while attending Oregon State University and has since become a versatile expert in Oregon’s legislative and campaign landscapes. His extensive background includes serving as staff in both the Oregon House and Senate, leading grassroots operations for federal candidates, and consulting on local municipal races.

Deeply committed to public service, Thomas has also served as an interim county planning commissioner and on a local public health advisory board. These roles, combined with over a decade of experience, have allowed him to build a vast network of relationships spanning every corner of the state.

Since joining Markee and Associates in 2014, Thomas has been a pillar of our team, providing our clients with the deep local insight and strategic connections necessary to succeed in Oregon.

Administrative Director

Donni Johnson

Since joining the team in 2024, Donni has become an indispensable asset to our daily operations. As our Administrative Director, she serves as the primary liaison for our clients, ensuring they receive timely updates and expert guidance. Donni’s background as a former business owner provides her with a unique perspective on organizational efficiency, drawing from her extensive experience across both the public and private sectors.

Founder - Consultant

Jim Markee

In 1974, Jim founded Markee & Associates, Inc., drawing on his extensive background in campaign management and his tenure with the Senate Revenue Committee. A preeminent figure in Oregon’s political landscape, Jim earned a reputation as a master strategist in both advocacy and electoral campaigns. While he is now officially retired, the firm continues to benefit from his decades of expertise through his ongoing consultancy on special projects.

Director of Special Projects

Deborah Shaheen

Deborah starting working for Markee & Associates, Inc in 2014. She has a long history of managing offices in both the private and public sectors.