PRI Revs Engines on New Era of Motorsports Advocacy, Adds Two Roles

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PRI logo over an image of the U.S. Capitol.


PRI is building up its capacity to advocate for the motorsports community, adding two new strategic roles on its Washington, D.C., government affairs team to bring more focus to racing and its legislative and regulatory issues.

"The addition of these positions is a strategic investment back into the motorsports community, which is a significant economic driver and a jewel in the crown of American culture," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, PRI senior vice president for public and government affairs. "When PRI supports racetracks, we're supporting community, innovation and our nation's competitive spirit; these new roles are in service to that calling."

PRI is promoting Tierra Hubbard to director of government affairs for racing. In this new role, Hubbard will lead advocacy on racing-specific issues at local, state and federal levels, including developing and executing proactive legislative strategies to advance positive, racing-friendly policies at all levels of government. Hubbard, previously PRI senior manager for state government affairs, has played a pivotal role in the organization's national Right-to-Race campaign, helping deliver meaningful wins on the eastern half of the U.S.

"Tierra is one of the hardest-working and most effective advocates in our organization, and she's earned the respect of lawmakers and the racing community alike. Over the past year, she has led the charge on our Right-to-Race efforts, helping drive meaningful progress in multiple states and building the coalitions needed to sustain that momentum," said SEMA Senior Director for State Government Affairs Christian Robinson. "We are thrilled to see her step into this new role, where her leadership and work ethic will continue to deliver results for the motorsports community."

"Working with PRI on motorsports initiatives has been incredibly rewarding, and because of my father's passion for racing, it serves as a personal reminder of why racetracks mean so much to communities across the country," said Hubbard. "I'm excited to get on the road, meet with track owners, drivers, pit crews and fans, and continue advancing the Right-to-Race campaign to protect and preserve this cultural treasure for generations to come."

Hubbard, a native of Minnesota, holds a degree in political science and criminal justice from George Washington University.

Lifelong motorsports enthusiast and seasoned political operative Coby Lobaugh is joining PRI as grassroots manager for racing. This new position will help engage the motorsports community in advocacy efforts. Lobaugh brings with him a lengthy track record of success in managing digital advocacy campaigns for political candidates, not-for-profit organizations, and members of the U.S. Congress.

In this new role, Lobaugh will support the efforts of PRI to activate and educate track owners, drivers, fans and local communities on key legislative priorities.

"We're thrilled to add Coby to the PRI Government Affairs team and believe he adds a potent mix of motorsports enthusiasm and digital communications acumen," said PRI Political Director Lauren Wilbor. "This is a critical step as PRI continues to build up our capacity to advocate for the nation's motorsports industry and its $69 billion annual economic impact, while engaging and mobilizing the people with whom the racetrack is a second home."

Lobaugh joins PRI from Judicial Watch, where he created content and oversaw broadcast productions reaching the organization's more than 7 million audience members. He also served as digital director for Rep. Mike Lawler's successful electoral campaign in New York, and built a compelling and engaging online communications platform for Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). Lobaugh's passion for cars and automotive culture is well-documented, including stints as a contributor and photographer for Viper Quarterly Magazine, an enthusiast-focused publication devoted to Dodge's iconic sports car.

"Anyone who loves cars knows and appreciates what PRI is doing to preserve American car culture and protect our nation's motorsports industry," Lobaugh said. "It's exciting to have this opportunity to work directly with those who pour their hearts and souls into racing and motorsports, and ensure that this vibrant part of our nation's heritage continues to flourish."

Lobaugh is a Texas native and holds a degree in broadcast production from Sam Houston State University.

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