Who We Are

About Rational

Turnkey communications campaigns under one roof. Tech-forward marketing and creative that moves audiences. Integrated public affairs campaigns. At Rational, every strategic plan is custom-built, crafted by industry leaders and powered by disruptive digital technology, including Pinpoint Targeting®.

Rational helps clients shape markets and move decision makers. We deliver strategic communications, full-service marketing, and integrated public affairs campaigns that drive impact.

For over two decades, we’ve delivered data-driven campaigns that expand and protect the commercial markets our clients depend on. Across sectors and industries, our deep bench of experienced professionals and their relentless dedication to our clients show up in our track record of growth and retention.

Rooted in the success of our longstanding bipartisan Public Affairs practice, our Strategic Communications, Marketing, Digital, and Creative teams collaborate to bring you the best minds across industries. With our suite of AI-backed digital tools and Pinpoint Targeting®, we challenge assumptions and take nothing for granted. As results-driven partners, we pursue the most effective solutions for your organization.

We are employee-owned. Members of the Rational team are personally invested in our client success. That means owner-level attention and always-on responsiveness, every time.

Own the Outcome

Rational Named One of Ragan’s Top Places to Work in Communications.

Our Leadership

We are innovative thinkers who bring diverse perspectives to the pressing challenges facing our clients, drawing on deep experience across industries, sectors, and communities. Our extensive networks and expertise give us a seat at the table where critical decisions are made, allowing us to shape conversations, influence outcomes, and deliver meaningful results for our clients. Meet the full team.

The Rational Rise

From Small Firm to One of the Largest Independent Strategic Communications, Marketing, and Public Affairs Companies in Washington

2005

Rational Public Affairs Formally Launches

Patrick Dorton and Brian Kaminski join forces to found their public affairs firm in a shared office space.

2009

Rational Public Affairs Becomes Rational 360

Rational Public Affairs changes its name to Rational 360.

2016

Rational 360 Invests in Expanded Digital Offering

Rational 360 begins long-term investments in developing digital strategies and products for clients.

2020 - 2021

Rational 360 Adapts, Growth Accelerates

Following the COVID-19 Pandemic, our client portfolio diversifies into more sectors, from technology start-ups to defense. During the pandemic, we more than double in revenue, staff and clients.

2023

Rational 360 Becomes an ESOP

Rational 360 leadership chooses the ESOP path, adding value for our employees and ensuring owner-level attention for our clients.

2024

Rational 360 Offers Standalone Pinpoint Targeting®

Rational 360 individual by-name targeting evolves out of an agency campaign model into standalone product offering: Pinpoint Targeting®.

2025

Rational 360 Scales Insights & Intelligence

Rational evolves social listening and data-driven offering, spanning polling and qualitative research, media intelligence, and emerging AI-driven capabilities.

2025
A picture of a lobby in the Rational Office. Photo credit: ©Kate Wichlinski, Social media @katewichlinski.

Rational 360 Named a Top Place to Work

Ragan names Rational 360 a Top Place to Work in Communications, spotlighting the hard work, dedication, and commitment of our employee-owners. Rational begins construction on a new bespoke headquarters on K Street.

2026

Rational 360 Introduces AI-Powered Reputation and Message Tools

Rational develops a custom narrative engine and dashboard to shape and track how AI models characterize brands and issues, alongside our Message Simulation Lab.

2026
A picture of a lobby in the Rational Office. Photo credit: ©Kate Wichlinski, Social media @katewichlinski.

Rational 360 Streamlines Name to Rational

Our main office moves to K Street, and our company name evolves to Rational, a modern brand that reflects our position as one of the largest independent strategic communications, marketing, and public affairs companies in Washington.