Rashad Bates

Rashad Bates is devoted to public policy and the ideas that shape how government, the economy, and society work together. As an Executive Coordinator at Third Way, he supports senior leadership across the Social Policy, Education & Politics and Economic programs. Growing up in the Chicago area, Rashad developed an early curiosity about how policy decisions translate into real-world outcomes, and that interest has guided his professional path. At Third Way, he helps coordinate executive operations, manage scheduling and logistics, and support the development of policy initiatives aimed at advancing pragmatic, forward-thinking solutions. Before joining Third Way, Rashad built a strong foundation in government relations and legislative work through roles in both the public and private sectors. He worked as a Government Affairs Specialist at Waste Management, where he tracked federal legislation and supported advocacy efforts on key energy and environmental issues. His time working in Congress further sharpened his skills in policy research, constituent communications, and legislative operations, giving him a firsthand understanding of how policy is developed, negotiated, and implemented. Across these experiences, Rashad has developed a reputation for being detail-oriented, adaptable, and deeply engaged in the policy process. Outside of work, Rashad maintains a strong interest in global affairs, history, and the intersection of politics and culture. A graduate of Michigan State University, where he earned degrees in Global History and Finance with a minor in Law, Justice, and Public Policy, he brings a curiosity-driven perspective to both his professional and personal interests. Whether following international developments or exploring historical context behind today’s policy debates, Rashad is driven by a desire to better understand the systems shaping the world around him.