Ihna Varner

Ihna Varner joined PRG in 2022 to help lead the research, policy analysis, lobbying, and reporting efforts on various client issues including infrastructure, transportation, trade, tax, and various energy and environmental issues – clean energy transition, biofuels, plastics recycling, chemicals regulations, energy storage, permitting, and carbon capture and sequestration. She has extensive experience in the federal budget process, drafting legislation, analyzing regulations, and advocacy.

Prior to joining Bracewell, Ihna worked for a DC-based think tank on labor and economic issues and led the organization’s Congressional and Administration outreach efforts. Previously, she was an aide in the Senate Budget Committee and in Senator Bernie Sanders’ office where she managed a broad portfolio covering education, labor, and retirement security. She also played a key role in crafting the Senator’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to Capitol Hill, Ihna worked for various energy and environmental organizations including WWF-Philippines, Stiftung Solarenergie, and Patagonia.  

Education:

Yale University and Harvard University Extension School, B.A. Government

Known For: Utilizing her extensive legislative, regulatory, and advocacy experience to provide strategic advice and advance clients’ priorities.

Interesting Career Note: As part of a college course on environmental communications, Ihna worked with Patagonia executives to revamp their Vote the Environment campaign.

Fast Facts: Ihna was selected as an Energy Studies Scholar during her time at Yale. As a high school student, she conducted research on biodigestion in the Bahamas.