R. Holt Whitt, III

Holt Whitt, a Government Relations Advisor at Adams & Reese in Nashville, has over 15 years of experience in state government, including as a former assistant commissioner for legislative affairs for the Tennessee Department of Health. 

Focused on Tennessee state and local government relations and with a vast knowledge of both the policy landscape and procedural complexities that define success at the General Assembly, Holt partners with clients to navigate through any regulatory challenges and connect their interests and policy goals. 

As Tennessee increasingly experiences a steady flow of companies seeking to do business within the state, Holt’s understanding of the state’s political and regulatory environment provides clients with critical advantage to further their business growth. Across every role, Holt has built a reputation as a trusted advisor. Legislators, lobbyists, and business leaders alike recognize Holt as a go-to resource with the experience, credibility, and relationships to get things done.

At the Tennessee Department of Health, Holt helped develop the department’s legislative agenda and worked with key members of the Tennessee General Assembly to ensure passage of its initiatives. His understanding of Tennessee’s healthcare infrastructure and industry is significant, especially as the state’s healthcare industry is experiencing significant growth, particularly in the Nashville area, which is becoming a major hub for healthcare innovation.

Earlier in his career, Holt served as Senior Policy Advisor at the Tennessee Department of Human Resources, leading legislative strategy and stakeholder engagement. He also held several senior leadership positions in the Tennessee General Assembly including Interim Chief of Staff and Director of Legislation for the Speaker of the House, and Director of Policy and Research and Analyst for the Tennessee General Assembly’s Republican Caucus – negotiating with lawmakers and coordinating efforts to ensure passage of priority legislation.

Disclaimer: Holt Whitt is not licensed to practice law.