Former Washington, D.C., Mayor Anthony Williams (D) joined Arent Fox on Thursday as director of the firm’s new state and municipal practice.

Arent Fox’s Craig Engle said the new hire will “compliment our federal and D.C. government— lobbying practices. “Our government relations group is growing,— Engle said. “Mayor Williams’ municipal practice is very well-timed given the amount of stimulus money that is going to states and municipalities.—

Williams served as mayor from 1999 to 2007 and is viewed as having good relationships with Members of Congress and the business community.

Arent Fox’s registered lobbying clients include the D.C. United soccer team, defense contractor Raytheon Co. and the Mountain West Conference.