Betsy Ide

Betsy Ide specializes in helping our clients to secure federal appropriations for their various programmatic and development needs. Her detailed knowledge of each of the thirteen congressional appropriations bills enables her to effectively construct and execute detailed funding strategies tailored specifically to the needs of each client. She also works on legislative policy issues related to health care, education, and agriculture, and her wide range of contacts in Washington helps keep her apprised of the latest legislative developments and cutting-edge issues on Capitol Hill. Prior to joining Cassidy & Associates in 2003, Ms. Ide was a Legislative Assistant to Representative John Sweeney (R-NY) where she handled federal appropriations for the Congressman as well as policy-based issues work. She worked closely with hospital Chief Executive Officers and college presidents from upstate New York, assisting them to develop projects that were ultimately funded by congressional earmarks. She also played a key role in drafting legislation to prevent and punish the use of illegal steroids in professional sports. Prior to her position with Congressman Sweeney, Ms. Ide worked in the offices of Senator Jim Jeffords (I-VT) and Vermont Lieutenant Governor Barbara Snelling. She maintains her close ties to Vermont State politics today. Ms. Ide earned her degree in Business from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs, New York.