[KHTS] – After 22 years in Congress, retired U.S. Rep. Howard “Buck” McKeon is forming McKeon Group LLC, “a consulting firm providing strategic analysis, advocacy and comprehensive government relations” for its clients.

McKeon served 11 terms as Santa Clarita’s representation in the House, his most recent term ending in January with the swearing in of his successor, Rep. Steve Knight, R-Antelope Valley.

His last term ended in a controversy surrounded by his failure to secure the passage of a Cemex bill that would have prevented a massive sand and gravel mine in the Santa Clarita Valley.

“I have put together a first class team of professionals knowledgeable about government and business,” said McKeon. “As a solutions oriented firm, our goal is to provide responsible and reliable services with proven results for our clients.”

McKeon plans to serve as chairman and CEO and provide the overall vision and direction for McKeon Group LLC.

Having served as Chairman of both the House Armed Services and Education and Workforce Committees, McKeon said he looks forward to using his background and experience to provide strategic advice to clients, while continuing to be outspoken for a strong national defense.

“As I have told others, I have left Congress but I have not left the fight,” stated McKeon. “Sequestration is threatening our national security and needs to be dealt with immediately.”

McKeon is joined by Bob Cochran as the Senior Partner bringing critical experience and knowledge of Capitol Hill. For the past two years Cochran served as Chief Operating Officer and principal at Porter Gordon Silver and previously served for 20 years as McKeon’s Chief of Staff.

Bob’s client list includes defense, education, labor and workforce issues and is a co-founder of the Reagan National Defense Forum, an annual national defense policy forum, chaired by McKeon and held at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley.

“I am excited about rejoining the McKeon team and working once again with the Chairman,” said Cochran.

Morris L Thomas, former McKeon spokesman, will also be involved.

McKeon Group LLC offices are located at 101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Suite 665 East, Washington, DC 20001. For further information contact Morris Thomas at 661-313-5707 or by email at tmorris@mckeongroupllc.com.