Steven Rivas
Political Strategist | Public Policy Consultant | Crisis Communications Expert
Strategic Leadership in Public Affairs & Political Consulting
Steven Rivas is a
trusted political strategist and public affairs consultant with a proven track record in
campaign strategy, fundraising, crisis communications, and policy development. He has worked at the highest levels of partisan and nonpartisan politics, advising elected officials, candidates, policy influencers, and industry leaders. His expertise spans
campaign rapid response, digital outreach, stakeholder engagement, and coalition-building.
At J.L. Powers & Associates, Rivas plays a critical role in business development, strategic marketing, and
stakeholder relations across Texas and nationally. He is known for his ability to build winning strategies, cultivate influential relationships, and execute high-impact messaging campaigns.
In addition to his work at JLPA, Rivas leads
The Rivas Group, where he counsels elected officials, manages political campaigns, and crafts strategic messaging for
advocacy efforts. His deep network within the political, media, and public affairs landscapes makes him an invaluable asset in
navigating complex policy environments and high-stakes campaigns.
Fundraising, Political Strategy & Campaign Success
Rivas has played a key role in
securing multi-million dollar campaign victories, including the $454.4 million bond election for Leander ISD in 2017. His work
has helped elect leaders at the local, state, and federal levels, shaping policies that impact communities across Texas and beyond.
His expertise includes:
- High-level fundraising and donor engagement—securing critical funding for candidates and issue-based campaigns.
- Campaign messaging and rapid response—developing contrast ads and communications strategies that define elections.
- Stakeholder and coalition-building—creating alliances that drive legislative and electoral success.
- Digital strategy and grassroots mobilization—leveraging data-driven outreach to engage voters and shape public opinion.
His
winning track record in Texas statewide campaigns includes
key leadership roles in gubernatorial, congressional, and down-ballot races. He has advised campaigns for Governor, Agriculture Commissioner, and U.S. Congress, delivering targeted strategies that resonate with voters and policymakers.
Trusted Media Trainer & Public Affairs Expert
Rivas is widely recognized as a
go-to media strategist and
subject matter expert for journalists covering
politics, policy, and public safety. His ability to shape narratives,
anticipate media trends, and provide rapid response in crisis situations makes him
a trusted voice in public affairs.
He has provided media guidance for:
- Elected officials and political candidates—preparing them for debates, interviews, and public appearances.
- Government agencies and nonprofit organizations—crafting strategic messaging to navigate public scrutiny.
- Business leaders and advocacy groups—positioning them for policy influence and crisis preparedness.
His expertise extends to press secretary duties, public relations crisis management, and editorial writing, with
a sharp ability to cut through media noise and elevate critical messages.
Background in Public Safety & Homeland Security
Before shifting into policy and political consulting, Rivas built a strong foundation in public safety, emergency management, and law enforcement relations. He served in his hometown's police and fire departments, gaining firsthand experience in community policing, crisis response, and 9-1-1 communications.
Recognized as the
"Father of Fire Dispatch", Rivas was instrumental in the
development and implementation of the Fire Priority Dispatch System (FPDS®), a groundbreaking framework that modernized fire-rescue call processing and response coordination across emergency communication centers.
His expertise extended to
scaling and deploying the Police Priority Dispatch System (PPDS®), enabling law enforcement agencies nationwide to integrate structured, evidence-based dispatch protocols that improved officer safety and emergency response.
Beyond his contributions to fire and law enforcement dispatching, Rivas played a key role in advancing
Emergency Medical Dispatch (EMD) training, working closely with agencies to implement best practices in 9-1-1 call triage and pre-arrival medical assistance.
Rivas also served as a public safety consultant, advising agencies on
emergency management technology, interoperable
radio systems, and
9-1-1 protocol integration. His work included:
- Modernizing Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) systems to enhance emergency response capabilities.
- Leading large-scale training programs for dispatch personnel, law enforcement, and first responders.
- Advocating for regional air ambulance services through the Texas "J" Regional Advisory Council (J-RAC).
National Recognition & Industry Leadership
Rivas has contributed to national public safety policies and accreditation standards, serving on multiple advisory boards and committees:
Why Leaders & Organizations Trust Steven Rivas
Steven Rivas is a highly sought-after consultant in political strategy, public policy, and crisis communications. With a career spanning political campaigns, policy development, and media strategy, he
brings a rare combination of expertise, experience, and influential connections.
For expert guidance in campaign strategy, fundraising, media relations, or crisis management, Steven Rivas
delivers the insights and solutions that drive meaningful results.
Connect with Steven Rivas on LinkedIn. News producers, assignment desks, and reporters on deadline may
call (512) 858-1317 and are encouraged to
complete the form below for media inquiries.
Disclaimer: The views, opinions, and statements expressed by Steven Rivas, including but not limited to editorials, public commentary, and political or nonpolitical positions, are solely his own and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or official stance of JL Powers & Associates, its clients, or affiliated organizations. Any references to third-party entities, agencies, or trademarks are for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement or affiliation.
Trademark Acknowledgments:
"Fire Priority Dispatch System", "FPDS®", "Police Priority Dispatch System", and "PPDS®"are registered trademarks of Medical Priority Consultants, DBA Priority Dispatch Corporation.
"National Fire Protection Association" and "NFPA®" are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Association.
"International Academies of Emergency Dispatch" and "IAED®" are registered trademarks of the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch.
All trademarks, service marks, and logos referenced remain the property of their respective owners. No endorsement or partnership is expressed or implied.
