Sometimes getting what you want in Washington requires creative bridge building.

That was certainly the case for a multinational oil company when it sought flexibility to export oil from Alaska's North Slope.

Opposition to drilling in the area had, over time, led to severe restrictions on foreign export of North Slope oil.

Those restrictions enjoyed the strong support of certain organized labor groups (as well as a number of environmental coalitions).

By facilitating introductions and helping build confidence between key stakeholders in this debate, THEPOTOMACGROUP contributed to a workable compromise that was ultimately enacted into law.