Facing a public relations crisis focused on its claim denials, one of UnitedHealth Group’s top lobbyists has taken a trip through the revolving door and into the office of a powerful Democratic congressman.
Acacia Salatti, a vice president of external affairs for UnitedHealth until last month, is now a senior advisor for Rep. Jim Clyburn (D-S.C.). The 17-term congressman, who was instrumental in orchestrating Biden’s nomination in the crowded 2020 Democratic primaries, held Democratic leadership roles for more than a decade, including House Democratic caucus chair, majority whip, and assistant Democratic leader. Salatti previously worked in Clyburn’s office from 2004-2009, holding positions including press aide and legislative assistant.
Salatti did not respond when asked if she will be working on health care matters for the congressman’s office or if she has any employment agreements with UnitedHealth or any other companies.
As VP of external affairs, Salatti was responsible for managing the company’s relationships with outside stakeholders, especially including the U.S. Congress and government agencies like Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. From the third quarter of 2021 through the third quarter of 2023, Salatti was named as a lobbyist on the company’s quarterly disclosures, which indicate she held discussions with members of Congress on topics including “Medicare Advantage,” “commercial health insurance reforms,” and “surprise medical billing.”
