Nominations for the 2026 program are OPEN!
Winners will be announced at the 2026 Pollie Awards & Conference, March 24-26, 2026, in Amelia Island, Florida!
The AAPC is dedicated to fostering the next generation of political professionals and is proud to recognize leaders and innovators in the political business community (including media, advertising, polling and public affairs) who are making a mark in their organizations and their professions and whose conduct has been consistent with the Professional Code of Ethics of the AAPC. The class of 2025 will be honored at an award ceremony at the 2026 Pollie Awards & Conference in Amelia Island, Florida.
FAQs
By what date does someone need to be “under 40”?
To be eligible you must be under the age of 40 through March 24, 2026.
What are the deadlines?
Nominations for 40 Under 40 Awards will close on January 5, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.
Do you need to be an AAPC member to nominate someone or to be a nominee/winner?
No. Anyone can nominate any individual working in the American political sphere. Â Membership is not required to participate in the Awards program.
Can you nominate yourself?
Yes, self-nominations are accepted.
When will winners be announced?
Awards will be presented as part of the 2026 Pollie Awards and Conference, March 24-26, 2026 in Amelia Island, Florida.
Rules & Eligibility
AAPC’s 40 under 40 Awards program recognizes individuals under the age of 40 who are in the political consulting profession and contribute to the advancement of the industry. Nominees must be headquartered in the United States and primarily work in the American political sphere. To be eligible you must be under the age of 40 through March 24, 2026. Nominees are not required to be AAPC members and there is no fee to submit an application.