Ford taps Capitol Hill veteran for U.S. government affairs role

She also has served as chief of staff for Reps. Francis Rooney, R-Fla.; Stephen Fincher, R-Tenn.; Steve Pearce, R-N.M.; and Richard Pombo, R-Calif.

In an interview Tuesday with Automotive News, Carter said she was drawn to Ford because of its values as an “American company with a strong history and strong story” and the broad range of issues she’ll get to work on, including the automaker’s shift toward electric vehicles.

The implementation of provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act, specifically tax credits for EV purchases and battery production, also are high on her radar, as key guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department is expected later this year.

Carter also will be navigating scrutiny of the automaker’s electrification plan in the U.S., as Republican lawmakers continue to probe Ford’s deal with China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. to use its technology at a planned battery plant in Michigan.

“We know that we’re playing a bit of catch-up with China, but Ford is strongly positioned to win,” she said. “This is an American company, and I would never bet against an American company.”

Carter reports to Chris Smith, Ford’s chief government affairs officer, who joined the company in March 2022, succeeding industry veteran and lobbyist Mitch Bainwol.

“Jessica’s substantial experience and deep relationships on Capitol Hill will help Ford identify, navigate and advance policy, from securing global supply chains to supporting homegrown advanced technology research and American manufacturing jobs,” Smith said in a statement. “Our country and our industry are at a pivotal crossroads in the transition to the connected, zero-emissions transportation future, and Jessica is exceptionally well-prepared to help fulfill our shared interests.”