Thies isn’t just an often quoted local political observer in D.C., he also advises politicians on their strategies and companies on public affairs issues. He’s coming off a winning season, having played the role of Ward 1 Councilman Jim Graham’s political adviser through Graham’s victory in the Democratic primary. The southern New Jersey native came to D.C. for a party on New Year’s Eve 1990, and has kept the party going ever since.