Rhett Ruggerio, Founder and President of Ruggerio Willson & Associates (RW&A), has successfully represented Fortune 500 companies, major trade associations, national non-profit organizations, local and state governments. His experience with both major corporations and small local governments, along with his role as the former Democratic National Committeeman for Delaware, has established Rhett as a go-to person in the party, a trusted Democratic ally. He has advised and advocated on behalf of CEOs, Senators, Governors and Mayors, heads of local trade organizations and national non-profits.

A party-elected position, Rhett has served as National Committeeman for the Delaware Democratic Party since 2005 and served as one of Delaware’s Super Delegates to the 2008 National Democratic Convention. He was also appointed to Chair the Coordinated Campaign for the Delaware Democratic Party where he worked with U.S. Senator Tom R. Carper, former State Treasurer and now Governor Jack Markell and Attorney General Beau Biden.

Prior to starting RW&A, Rhett had already established a long record of government relations success. Rhett’s political career began in Wilmington, Delaware where he ran a successful campaign defeating the long-time incumbent that got James M. Baker elected to Mayor in 1999.  Rhett spent the next 5 years in one of the top appointed positions, serving as Executive Assistant to the Mayor.

During his tenure with the City of Wilmington, Rhett worked directly with the Mayor, City Council Members and City Government Department Heads to direct key policy initiatives and affect significant positive change. He was also appointed Chief Lobbyist for the City of Wilmington, a position he held for 5 years. Prior to founding RW&A, Rhett helped ensure success for the Mayor for 2 more full terms, chairing Re-Election Campaign in 2004 and serving as Senior Advisor to the Mayor’s 2008 Re-Election Committee.

When not in Dover, Rhett can be found at the Naval Jetty Pier trying to shred waves or hanging with his wife and two daughters at a local lacrosse field.