Politico reports that Apple has hired veteran DC insider Amber Cottle as its new top lobbyist. Cottle previously served as Democratic Staff Director for the Senate Finance Committee, and also served as the committee’s Chief International Trade Counsel.
MacRumors notes that while Cottle served on the Finance Committee, she advised members and staff on international trade and economic issues. She has also served as Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Investment.
Apple has increased their visibility in Washington DC in recent years, as Apple executives have met with President Obama over NSA surveillance, and also appeared to testify in front of a Senate committee investigating corporate tax strategies.
Catherine Ann Novelli previously held the position of VP of Worldwide Government Affairs, a position she held since 2007. She left Apple for a job at the U.S. State Department.
Politico notes that Apple spent $3.3 million on lobbying in 2013, that’s roughly double the amount spent the year before.
