🚐 Capitol Connections & Campground Conversations: Lightspeed Hits D.C. for RVIA Move America Week
Earlier this week, I had the privilege of representing Lightspeed and the RV industry at the 2025 RVIA Move America Week in Washington, D.C. This event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators at the iconic Mayflower Hotel, which proudly celebrated its 100th anniversary during our stay—adding a sense of history and gravitas to an already impactful week.
🏛️ Sunday, June 1 – A Warm Welcome
The week kicked off with a networking reception hosted by the Emerging Leaders Coalition, setting the tone for days of collaboration and advocacy. It was a great chance to connect with new faces and rekindle relationships from past events.
📊 Monday, June 2 – Committees in Action
I dove headfirst into a full schedule of committee meetings including:
- RV Aftermarket Committee
- Market Information Committee (where I proudly serve as a member)
- Financial Services Committee
The evening closed with a Welcome Reception, where conversations flowed as freely as ideas—always a highlight for building industry camaraderie.
🗣️ Tuesday, June 3 – Advocacy Day Prep & Insights
The day was packed with strategy, learning, and inspiration:
- Members & Supplier Committees
- First-Time Advocate Training – a crash course in Capitol Hill engagement
- Keynote Lunch with CNN’s Scott Jennings, offering a powerful political lens on our industry’s position
- Advocacy Day Guide Meeting, where I connected with my group (primarily Utah-based, in line with Lightspeed’s home state) to align on our Hill strategy
That evening we honored Kevin McArt, General Manager of Forest River, during a stunning Chairman’s Dinner at the upscale Ciel Social Club. There, I had a great conversation with Nathan Hart, owner of Walnut Ridge dealerships and a Lightspeed customer—his knowledge and insights are always appreciated.
🏛️ Wednesday, June 4 – Capitol Hill Advocacy
Advocacy Day was the week’s centerpiece. We met with:
- Senator John Curtis (R-UT)
- Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04)
- Congresswoman Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02)
- Congressman Burgess Owens (R-UT-04)
- Congressman Mike Kennedy (R-UT-03)
We focused on four key RVIA priorities:
- The RV Industry’s National Economic Impact
- Tariff Reform
- Dealer Floor Plan Interest Deduction / Travel Trailer and Camper Tax Parity Act
- Reauthorization of the GAOA & Legacy Restoration Fund
It was inspiring to see how seriously our elected officials took these topics and to be part of pushing real policy forward.
⚾ A Perfect Finish
To cap off the week, I caught a Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs game at Nationals Park—enjoying a legendary Ben’s Original Half Smoke and ice cream under the D.C. lights. The perfect end to a whirlwind trip.
This year’s Move America Week was another huge win—not only for Lightspeed, but for the entire RV ecosystem. Between productive conversations, renewed partnerships, and powerful advocacy, we’re helping ensure the road ahead is wide open for growth and innovation in the industry.
Jeremy Johnson
I'm a seasoned veteran in the powersport, marine, and RV industries with over 25 years of experience. I've spent a significant amount of that time in the digital and website space, and I absolutely love it. I recently celebrated my three-year anniversary at Lightspeed, where I get to work with OEMs and dealers and help them succeed in the digital world. When I'm not at work, I enjoy traveling with my family, watching my kids' sporting events, and exploring the beautiful outdoors of Northern Minnesota through hunting and fishing. I'm incredibly passionate about what I do, and I love sharing that passion with others. Whether it's working with my team at Lightspeed or spending time with my family, I'm always up for an adventure.
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