Wanner Associates Welcomes Jay Widerhold as New Senior Lobbyist

HARRISBURG, PA – July 14, 2025 – Wanner Associates is pleased to announce the addition of Jay Wiederhold as Senior Lobbyist, bringing more than three decades of public policy leadership, legislative strategy, and trade association management to the firm.

Jay Wiederhold is a seasoned government affairs professional whose extensive career includes pivotal roles in both the private and public sectors. Most recently, he served for nearly 20 years as President of the Pennsylvania Beer Alliance (PBA), where he led strategic initiatives, grassroots advocacy, and legislative efforts on behalf of beer wholesalers across the Commonwealth. His leadership led to transformative policies, including key provisions in Act 39 of 2016, which modernized beer sales in Pennsylvania, and Act 57 of 2024, which expanded product placement flexibility. He also spearheaded early advocacy for the regulation of Delta-9 THC beverages, demonstrating his progressive approach to an evolving industry.

“Jay’s experience and professionalism adds to our firm’s longstanding commitment to successful outcomes for our clients,” said John Wanner, President of Wanner Associates.

Prior to his leadership of PBA, Jay held several senior staff positions within the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, including Executive Director of the House Liquor Control Committee. His career in public service also includes impactful work on state tax, liquor, and small games of chance legislation.

Jay is a graduate of Penn State University, Harrisburg, with a Bachelor of Science in Public Policy. He is a recipient of the NBWA Public Affairs Award, was named to the 2023 Pennsylvania Government Relations Power 100, and was recognized as a 2024 City & State 50 over 50 Honoree.

Wanner Associates is thrilled to add Jay to their exceptional government relations team. As a leading government relations firm and dual association management organization, it is recognized for exceptional service and unwavering commitment to client success. The firm celebrated 40 years in business earlier this year, following their recent achievements of being named a top 50 lobbying firm by City & State Magazine, as well as having both the President and Vice President named in the Central Pennsylvania Business Journal Government Relations Powerlists. Within its 40 years of business, the company is well known by key decision-makers and has earned a bipartisan reputation in the halls of the legislature. The addition of Jay Wiederhold expands the firm’s network and promises to create even more opportunities for success.