Joint Government Affairs Conference

The American Advertising Federation (AAF), in conjunction with the American Association of Advertising Agencies (AAAA) and Association of National Advertisers (ANA) presented its annual National Advertising Joint Government Affairs Conference. The Washington Post hosted the event.

After welcoming remarks from Washington Post Publisher and Chief Executive Officer Boisfeuillet Jones, House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman John Dingell, D-Mich., discussed his years in Congress and the challenges faced by the new Congress this year. Of note, Rep. Dingell said "it would be difficult to pass a ban or moratorium on direct-to-consumer advertising" of pharmaceuticals, saying the proposals have serious First Amendment implications. He stressed importance of self-regulation of advertising, especially as it concerns DTC advertising, FCC jurisdiction of violent television programming and food and drug safety. A copy of Rep. Dingell's speech is available here.

Federal Communications Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate highlighted the work underway by the Children's Media and Obesity Task Force and encouraged the advertising industry to engage in the "Four E's—Educate, Equalize, Emulate and Eradicate," as a means of fighting obesity. "We are not here to fight the influence of media on our children, but to make it a positive force," said Tate. A copy of Tate's speech is available here.

Citing research conducted by his organization, Andrew Kohut, president of the Pew Research Center, discussed American opinions and attitudes concerning the 2008 presidential election, the war in Iraq and other social trends. Kohut candidly answered audience questions on a wide array of topics, including advertising and media influence.

David Broder, a national political correspondent for The Washington Post, discussed recent political news and columns he has written on the new Congress and upcoming elections. He highlighted recent controversies on Capitol Hill and offered a unique perspective on the latest issues.

Advertising industry representatives from across the country and industry spectrum had a chance to meet one another and network. The AAF, AAAA and ANA thank the speakers, attendees and the Washington Post for making the event a success.

From the left: Rick Tippett, Director – National Advertising, The Washington Post; Dick O'Brien, EVP, Director of Government Affairs, AAAA; Steve Hills, President & General Manager, The Washington Post; David Broder, National Political Coorespondent, The Washington Post; Bob Liodice, President & CEO, ANA; Wally Snyder, President & CEO, AAF.