Thank You for Attending ACCESS D.C.

The L.A. Area Chamber led a delegation of more than 100 business, community, and civic leaders to Washington, D.C., to engage with policymakers and advocate for priorities shaping the Los Angeles region and California’s economy. Our Advocacy Agenda focused on securing federal support for disaster recovery and rebuilding, upcoming global sporting events, infrastructure investments, AI & workforce of the future, and expanded opportunities for small businesses. Through over 50 meetings on Capitol Hill, our delegation made a compelling case for increased investment in Los Angeles, one of the nation's leading economic engines.

Event Highlights

The Chamber Convenes Leaders in D.C. with a Welcome Reception
The Chamber kicked off this year’s ACCESS D.C. with a reception at the Conrad Washington, D.C. Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the L.A. Area Chamber, welcomed a distinguished delegation of business and government leaders to our nation's capital. Special thanks to our 2026 Board Chair, Andy S. Park, our sponsors, and all our partner organizations in attendance.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Shares His Vision for the Future of Federal Transportation Infrastructure
U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy joined ACCESS D.C. for a fireside chat led by Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the L.A. Area Chamber. Secretary Duffy emphasized the necessity of safety in public transit systems and shared his perspective on innovation and partnerships tied to major global events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

California's U.S. Senators Speak with Access D.C. Delegation
U.S. Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff shared perspectives on California’s economic challenges and opportunities. Senator Padilla attended the Monday evening reception, where he spoke about his vision for a resilient and competitive state economy. Senator Schiff participated in a fireside chat moderated by Maria S. Salinas, President & CEO of the L.A. Area Chamber, and Rodney Fong, President & CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, where he offered valuable insights on his policy efforts to address California's economic challenges, increase our housing supply, and secure federal support for small businesses.

The L.A. Area Chamber and San Francisco Chamber Present Award of Recognition
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi delivered a keynote and accepted the inaugural Nancy Pelosi Public Servant of the Year Award, presented by the L.A. Area Chamber and San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. Speaker Pelosi underscored how collaboration strengthens communities, expands opportunity, and advances shared values, exemplifying the impact of dedicated public service.

Meeting with the Small Business Association
The delegation met with SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler to explore ways to strengthen small businesses across the Los Angeles region. The discussion focused on advancing disaster recovery efforts, supporting entrepreneurs, and helping small businesses capitalize on the opportunities presented by major global events. Administrator Loeffler reaffirmed the SBA's commitment to backing Los Angeles in these endeavors.

Meeting with the U.S. Department of Commerce
The delegation met with Robert McLeod, Director of Intergovernmental Affairs, and Robert O’Leary, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism at the U.S. Department of Commerce. The Chamber delegation emphasized the region’s request for recovery aid due to the 2025 wildfires as well as infrastructure and public safety funds necessary to ensure the success of the global sporting events coming to our region.

Meeting at the White House
The delegation visited the White House to meet with the Office of Management and Budget to review federal priorities affecting the Los Angeles region. Discussions touched on areas connected to LA28, including transportation, public safety, and cybersecurity. Members of the delegation emphasized the need for strong federal support to ensure Los Angeles can deliver a world-class experience on the global stage.

Delegation Heads to Capitol Hill
During ACCESS D.C., the delegation met with members of Congress to advocate for policies supporting the Los Angeles region. Meetings included Congresswoman Laura Friedman of California’s 30th District, as well as representatives from the offices of Senator Martin Heinrich and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

FEATURED PARTICIPANTS

March 15-17, 2026

Conrad Washington, D.C.

EVENT PHOTOS

2026 ADVOCACY AGENDA

For more information, please reach out to the following team members: