Former N.J. State Senator (and Senate Republican Leaders) Steve Oroho has joined Porzio Governmental Affairs as the director of legislative strategy, the firm announced Thursday.

The Trenton-based firm, a leader in strategic government relations and public policy advocacy, also announced that Thomas Bushnauskas, a seasoned government affairs professional with expertise in outreach and legislative initiatives, will join in the role of government affairs associate.
Porzio, in a group statement, said the pair brings a wealth of experience and added capabilities to help clients achieve their goals in an ever-evolving policy landscape. “The addition of Steve Oroho and Thomas Bushnauskas reflects PGA’s commitment to delivering exceptional results for our clients,” the firm said. “Steve’s legislative expertise and decades of public service, combined with Thomas’s innovative approach to outreach and government affairs, position us to navigate complex policy challenges with unmatched insight and strategy.
“Together, their contributions enhance our ability to service our existing clients with an even greater set of skills and depth.” Oroho brings decades of distinguished public service experience to PGA. A former New Jersey State Senator, who represented the 24th Legislative District from 2008-23, Oroho served as Senate Republican Leader and earned a reputation as a pragmatic and dedicated leader with a noted ability to work across the aisle.
Throughout his tenure, he championed economic development, regulatory reform, and fiscal responsibility, with notable achievements including laws to support small businesses and streamline New Jersey’s regulatory environment.
Before his legislative career, Oroho held leadership roles in local government, including serving on the Franklin Borough Council and the Sussex County Board of Chosen Freeholders. His financial acumen as a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Public Accountant further complemented his work as a longtime member of the Senate Budget Committee.
Bushnauskas joins PGA with a broad background in public service, and political strategy. Most recently, he served as the executive director of the Police Athletic League of Parsippany, focusing on youth development and strengthening community ties. His earlier work as a Legislative Staffer to Former Assemblyman John F. McKeon involved managing constituent relations and providing crucial support for legislative matters, including the development and passage of key bills.
Bushnauskas also has significant experience in communications and outreach. As director of Outreach & Return on Investment for U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer, he led communications strategies and developed relationships with key stakeholders. His earlier roles include serving as Communication Outreach Specialist for Passaic County and Chief of Staff to County Freeholder Sandi Lazzara, where he helped guide a successful re-election campaign and designed impactful legislation.