Principals

As well positioned Democrat, Independent and Republican lobbyists we have consistently delivered for our clients in difficult situations under challenging circumstances. Our political connections and tenacious style have proven time and again to meet our client’s expectations. Together we have proven access to the Governor’s office, Joint Budget Committee members and legislative leadership on both sides of the aisle, as well as executives in various State Departments. The firm employs three full-time lobbyists, a Policy Associate / a Policy consultant and an office manager, all of whom allow our team to provide unparalleled resources to serve our clients’ needs. We invite you to meet the team at Aponté & Busam Public Affairs:

Ruth Aponté

Founder; Owner & President

The founding partner of the firm, Ruth has been lobbying in Colorado for over 25 years and is well regarded as one of the premier budget lobbyists in the state. Her work has resulted in millions of dollars annually being directed to client needs. Ruth has also worked as the executive director of a non-profit organization and organized a campaign to fight a constitutional initiative. Ruth has gained the trust and respect of members from both sides of the aisle and consistently secures bipartisan sponsorship and support for client legislation. She holds a Masters Degree in Political Science.
To reach Ruth email her at raponte@aponte-busam.com

Edie Busam

Principal

Edie has over 35 years in lobbying experience, health care administration including hospice administration, reimbursement contracting, auto industry regulations and medical device manufacturing. Edie was successful in passing prosthetic parity legislation for the Colorado Coalition for Working Amputees, the first in the country. She has worked on difficult health insurance legislation, auto industry issues, reasonable licensure legislation and decreasing burdensome regulations. Edie specializes in the areas of health care, non-profit organizations, and business. She holds degrees in Political Science and Nursing.
To reach Edie email her at ebusam@aponte-busam.com

Dave DeNovellis

Senior Political Consultant

Dave comes to us from the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing where he has served for five years working on state and federal policy issues most recently as the Chief Legislative Liaison heading up the agency’s legislative program. Prior to this he worked for the Colorado General Assembly’s Legislative Council and staffed the health care, business and legislative leadership committees. Dave also has experience on the communications front through his work with one of the state’s premier consumer groups, the Colorado Center on Law & Policy.
To reach Dave email him at ddenovellis@aponte-busam.com

Julia Scanlan

Policy Associate

Julia has a love for problem solving and has enjoyed the challenge of navigating the Colorado state political and legislative system for the past seven years. She has become well acquainted with state politics after working both on both local and state campaigns. Her experience includes working for several Legislators at the State Capitol, she also provided logistical support for other Colorado State Lobbyist and most recently for former Governor John Hickenlooper in his Office of Legislative Affairs. She holds degrees in International Studies and Public Policy, along with a Master’s of Public Policy.
To reach Julia email her at  jscanlan@aponte-busam.com

Emily Biniki

Political Consultant

Emily comes to us with both a legislative, and policy analysis background, having worked for several legislators during a variety of sessions, as well as on Congressional campaigns. Most recently, she worked as a health care policy analyst, tracking legislation and advising on numerous issues in the health care market. Her policy expertise is in health care, and issues concerning mental health and veterans’ affairs. She holds degrees in Politics and Policy Making from the University of California. Santa Cruz as well and a Masters of Public Policy from the University of Denver.
To reach Emily email her at ebiniki@aponte-busam.com

Cindy Link

Office Manager

Cindy brings over 30 years of detail, organization and management experience to the firm. Her role to support the team includes schedule coordination, customer billing and contracting, event planning and overall operations management. Throughout her career, Ms. Link has placed a strong emphasis on customer service and thorough communication. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Woodglen Square Home Owners Association, and volunteers at the Samaritan House. Ms. Link is a native Coloradoan hailing from the San Luis Valley who is fluent in Spanish. She and her son Adam live in Thornton, Colorado.
To reach Cindy email her at clink@aponte-busam.com