The Mortgage Bankers Association appointed Rachel Kelley as its vice president of legislative affairs, with a focus on advocating MBA's legislative and policy priorities on Capitol Hill, particularly among Republican members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Kelley brings experience in political advocacy, real estate finance, and fundraising campaigns to her new role.
Previously serving as the associate vice president of political affairs at MBA, Kelley has a proven track record of mobilizing support and leading successful advocacy efforts. During the 2021-2022 election cycle, she played a pivotal role in member engagement, raising nearly $3,050,000 in individual donations for MBA's Political Action Committee (MORPAC), making it one of the top 10 national trade association PACs in terms of fundraising receipts and contributions distributed.
Before joining MBA, Kelley held political fundraising roles at CLT Host 2020 Inc., the Republican National Committee, and the National Republican Senatorial Committee. She also has experience lobbying and managing PACs for organizations like ICSC (formerly known as the International Council of Shopping Centers) and has worked as a lobbyist at a multiclient firm specializing in business development and education appropriation grants for community colleges and technology companies.
Kelley's career in political affairs began with her work in the office of former U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL). She holds a Bachelor of Arts and Science in Political Science from the University of Alabama.
“Rachel is passionate about political advocacy and real estate finance and has led a number of successful advocacy and fundraising campaigns at MBA, at other related industry trade groups, as a consultant, and while serving in key roles at the Republican National Committee and National Republican Senatorial Committee,” said Bill Killmer, MBA's chief lobbyist and senior vice president of legislative and political affairs. “Her proven track record of mobilizing support will add a unique dimension to our direct lobbying team. I am confident her deep relationships on Capitol Hill will generate successful legislative outcomes for MBA and its members.”
