Lobbyist & Donor: Racist Texts Scandal
- The incident highlights the scrutiny faced by lobbyists and political donors regarding their personal conduct and the potential impact on their professional relationships and political influence.
- Courtney Johnson, a prominent Capitol Hill lobbyist and Democratic donor, was fired from the Alpine Group on March 1 after alleged racist texts surfaced.The texts, which included racist...
- Over 16 years, Johnson contributed $432,130 to Democratic campaigns while lobbying Congress, according to Open Secrets.
Capitol Hill lobbyist Courtney Johnson was swiftly fired after alleged racist texts surfaced, marking a major scandal. The leaked messages, including hateful remarks and discussions of genocide, led to her termination from Alpine Group. News Directory 3 reports Johnson was also a notable Democratic donor, contributing over $400,000 to campaigns. Discover what’s next for the lobbyist and the impact on future political donations.
Lobbyist Courtney Johnson Fired after alleged Racist Texts Surface
Updated May 25,2025
Courtney Johnson, a prominent Capitol Hill lobbyist and Democratic donor, was fired from the Alpine Group on March 1 after alleged racist texts surfaced.The texts, which included racist remarks and discussions of genocide, were posted online, leading to her termination.
Over 16 years, Johnson contributed $432,130 to Democratic campaigns while lobbying Congress, according to Open Secrets. She also donated $2,250 to Republicans during the same period. Johnson’s clients included AWS, leidos, Lyft, and Amgen. She was recognized as a ”top lobbyist” by The Hill in 2021 and assumed leadership of Alpine’s healthcare practice in 2024.
The Alpine Group stated that Johnson’s conduct was inconsistent with company policies and standards. The firm emphasized its commitment to professionalism and integrity.
“Following a thorough internal review, The Alpine Group has terminated the employment of Courtney Johnson, effective immediately, due to conduct that is inconsistent with our company’s policies and standards,” Alpine Group, Statement said.
A DC “Top Lobbyist” is seen participating in a racially charged text exchange. pic.twitter.com/dwH7CnFeZ3
— TizzyEnt (@TizzyEnt) February 28, 2025
Influencer @TizzyEnt posted the video online. Lobbyists told Secrets that the texts were especially shocking because Johnson was such a Democratic influencer. She donated to prominent Democrats, including Rep.Debbie Dingell, D-Mich., Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y.
Screenshots showed “Jimmy” criticizing whites for being open to black people. Johnson appeared to write, “Abortion doesn’t target people.Black people have more sex partners and a higher risk of pregnancy…” “Jimmy” also allegedly texted about killing black people, saying, “I wish whites would kill all blacks” and “I want to commit genocide.”
What’s next
It remains to be seen how this incident will affect Johnson’s future career prospects and the broader landscape of lobbying and political donations on Capitol Hill.