Our Story
Our founding story begins in the halls of political campaigns and government offices, where our paths crossed and our visions aligned. After years of working with and observing the political consulting landscape, we recognized the potential to create something new by combining our diverse expertise to create a consulting firm that does not default to the traditional approaches and instead values diverse voices and perspectives.
With over 30 years of combined experience in politics and government: Annie, Claire, and Michael bring together a wealth of knowledge and experience from their extensive careers in political campaigns, government roles, and advocacy work.
Claire Simonson
Managing Partner
With a formidable background in finance, non-profit, and operations management, Claire Simonson brings her adeptness at navigating the intricate world of political fundraising and donor relations to MAC Group. Her deep knowledge of how to run strategic programs and initiatives, coupled with her experience raising millions and breaking records for candidates and causes, has equipped her with the strategic acumen to support our clients' goals.
Claire's commitment to upholding democracy and progressive values is at the core of her approach and fundraising philosophy, making her an indispensable pillar of our team. Claire lives in Denver with her husband, Aaron, and dog, Charlie. She loves stand up comedy and interior design.
Annie Orloff
Managing Partner
Annie Orloff brings over a decade of experience directing high-stakes communications operations and managing effective teams both in Federal and State government including on Capitol Hill. Orloff’s tenure as the Director of Communications at the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office followed by her role as Deputy Chief of Staff exemplifies Annie’s ability to cohesively manage complex communication strategies, elevate organizational priorities, and foster collaboration across diverse teams while navigating historic events such as the Trump v. Anderson case at the U.S. Supreme Court.
Annie's innovative approach to communications and her dedication to advancing democratic principles are integral to MAC Group’s unique offerings. Annie splits her time between Denver and Telluride, Colorado with her husband, Ian, and rescue dog, Burley. You can find her cooking a new vegan recipe or binge watching Bravo shows.
Michael Whitehorn
Managing Partner
Michael Whitehorn brings to the table over a decade of experience in political and organizational leadership. As the Chief of Staff at the Colorado Department of State, he demonstrated his prowess in strategic direction setting, organizational alignment, and budget management.
Michael's extensive experience managing campaigns and his strategic insight into political dynamics have proven invaluable in guiding MAC Group’s strategies. His leadership ensures that our clients benefit from a holistic approach to political consulting, underpinned by a commitment to empathy, integrity and excellence. Michael lives in Denver with his wife, Jenny, his dog, Dan, and their two kids, Phoebe and Rory. He loves Clemson football and being inside.
$35M Dollars Raised
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300+ Interviews Secured
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$5M Ads Placed
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100+ Cable Hits
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$50M Annual Budget Oversight
$35M Dollars Raised • 300+ Interviews Secured • $5M Ads Placed • 100+ Cable Hits • $50M Annual Budget Oversight
Collectively raised over $35 million for political campaigns and nonprofit initiatives.
Managed annual budgets exceeding $50 million and $12 million in government contracts.
Our collective expertise in budget management spans from direct oversight of multi-million dollar operational budgets to strategic fundraising and financial planning for political campaigns and organizations. This combined experience allows MAC Group to leverage financial planning and management in support of our clients political objectives and organizational goals.
Development and Execution of Comprehensive Communication Strategies.
Managed over 1000+ press inquiries.
Secured over 150+ cable hits.
Placed over 5 million in ads across a variety of platforms.
Managed over 300+ interviews.
Worked with outlets including the Washington Post, the New York Times, CNN, MSNBC, ABC, NBC, BBC, the Wall Street Journal, Huffington Post, Bloomberg, the Atlantic, VOX, NPR, AP, the 19th, USA Today, POLITICO, The Hill, Reuters, the Guardian and more.
