Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America Announces Three Additions to Federal Affairs Team

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 7, 2026 - Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) today announced the appointment of three key federal affairs leaders: Ben Castagnetti, Scott Luginbill, and Kelsey Snyder. They will further strengthen WSWA's advocacy presence in Washington, D.C., under the leadership of Dawson Hobbs, Executive Vice President, Government Affairs.

Ben Castagnetti, Director, Federal Affairs, who joined the association in October, also supports the execution of WSWA's federal agenda and congressional outreach. Before WSWA, he worked for Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), focusing on trade, foreign relations, and national security issues.

Scott Luginbill, Vice President, Federal Affairs, brings over 15 years of experience in public affairs and government relations to WSWA. Most recently he served as Senior Advisor and Deputy Chief of Staff to Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) and previously held strategic roles including Vice President at Penta Group and leadership positions on Capitol Hill.

Kelsey Snyder, Director, Federal Affairs, helps develop and execute strategies to advance WSWA's federal priorities and monitor congressional activity. Prior to joining WSWA, she served as Principal of Federal Government Relations at the National Federation of Independent Business, advocating for small business legislative interests.

In their respective roles, Castignetti, Luginbill and Snyder will play central roles in advancing WSWA's legislative priorities, engaging with policymakers, and shaping federal public policy that supports the three-tier system and prioritizes American, family-owned businesses.

"Our federal affairs team is instrumental to WSWA's mission of representing the wholesale tier on Capitol Hill and before federal agencies," said Hobbs. "Ben, Kelsey, and Scott bring deep experience and strategic insight that will elevate our advocacy efforts and amplify the voice of wine and spirits wholesalers in critical policy debates."

Their addition reflects WSWA's commitment to a dedicated federal team that collaborates closely with wholesaler members, policymakers, and stakeholders on issues including tax policy, trade issues, smart regulation of intoxicating hemp products, and the protection of the three-tier system.

About Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America

WSWA is the national trade association representing the distribution tier of the wine and spirits industry, dedicated to advancing the interests and independence of distributors and brokers of wine and spirits. Founded in 1943, WSWA has more than 380 member companies in 50 states and the District of Columbia, and its members distribute more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States.

To learn more, please visit www.wswa.org or connect with us on LinkedIn, X or Facebook.

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