On February 20, Boeing appointed Jeff Shockey as its new top lobbyist amid constant criticism from the White House. US planemakers face various issues as the government has scrutinized them over delayed deliveries of new Air Force One jet. Shockey is returning to Boeing after the previous head left unexpectedly in December. He previously led global government relations at aerospace and defense company RTX (formerly Raytheon).
Shockey also served as VP of global sales and marketing at Boeing Defense, Space & Security, and was a senior Boeing lobbyist and former U.S. House aide. Boeing is facing the risk of new tariffs affecting airplane production and exports, along with increased scrutiny on its quality and manufacturing after a 2024 mid-air emergency involving a new Alaska Airlines 737 MAX 9.
Jeff Shockey: Boeing’s New Lobbyist
Shockey will lead Boeing’s global public policy efforts, including U.S. federal, state, and local government relations, sustainability, and the company’s global philanthropic arm, Boeing Global Engagement. He will also ensure a unified strategy to communicate Boeing’s business goals and strengthen ties with both public and private stakeholders. He will report to Boeing President and CEO Kelly Ortberg, and Shockey will be part of the Executive Council.
“Jeff’s impressive 30-year track record in government, government relations, and business development will help us rebuild trust with key government partners,” said Ortberg. “His experience at Boeing and in the commercial and defense sectors will support our efforts to strengthen our culture and build a safer, higher-performing future for Boeing.”
Boeing’s Government Affairs Focus
On Wednesday, Trump expressed frustration with Boeing over major delays in delivering the next-generation Air Force One planes and hinted at exploring other options. Boeing has already lost over $2 billion on the contract for the two new presidential planes. Ortberg is set to testify before the Senate Commerce Committee on April 2 about Boeing’s response to the 2024 Alaska Airlines mid-air emergency.
“There have been too many safety issues with Boeing in recent years,” said Senator Ted Cruz, chair of the Commerce Committee. He emphasized that the public needs to know what steps Boeing is taking to rebuild trust. Trump’s nominee for deputy transportation secretary, Steve Bradbury, added that regulators need to be tougher on Boeing.
Boeing Stock Update
Over the past week, Boeing’s stock has experienced fluctuations, closing at $186.75 on February 14, 2025, and $180.88 on February 20, 2025. A month ago, on January 21, 2025, the stock was trading at $175.56. Currently, the stock is priced at $180.88, indicating a slight increase from the January 21 price.
