About
We live in a world of chaos where clutter reigns supreme, and noise is the soundtrack that’s forever on repeat.
Lawmakers are befuddled by competing constituencies, voters are enamored with drama, and consumers acquiesce to algorithms as members of the media juggle more projects and crippling metrics with tighter deadlines.
To notch public policy wins, earn attention and trust from the electorate, build brand awareness, and harness the power of multifaceted media platforms, you need powerfully simple messaging coupled with modernized targeting strategies.
To win – in the legislature, the voting booth, the marketplace, or the court of public opinion – you need a team that’s methodical and measured.
Sugarcane is a full-service public affairs firm led by one of the country’s top communications strategists. After two decades of service to Governors, U.S. Senators, Fortune 500 executives, and issue leaders, this Georgia-based company uses data, technology, and unmatched experience to craft strategies that work.
The volume continues to rise as competition for attention intensifies. Sugarcane builds campaigns that clear the field so you can connect, convince, and win.
Why Sugarcane?
“Growing up in South Louisiana, we would take field trips to the Parish Fair. While tempted by the fried Oreos and funnel cakes, I would inevitably pony up a few dollars and purchase a stalk of sugarcane that served as both a sweet treat and a makeshift weapon.
Powerfully simplistic messaging – like a stalk of sugarcane – can inspire change or kill legislation, elect an inspiring leader, end a political career, save a company from crisis, or bankrupt a business deemed too big to fail.
At Sugarcane, we build campaigns for politicians, issue advocates, business and non-profit leaders. We walk tall, carry a big stalk, and clear the field so you can win.”
-Ryan Mahoney, Senior Strategist
Ryan Mahoney
President and Senior Strategist
Ryan Mahoney is a seasoned political strategist, public affairs expert, and communications professional with nearly two decades of experience leading high-profile campaigns, ballot initiatives, and strategic advocacy efforts across the country. A native of Mandeville, Louisiana, Ryan is a proud graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi.
Over the course of his career, Ryan has served in senior leadership roles for some of Georgia’s most prominent political figures. He was the Communications Director for the Georgia Republican Party, where he played a key role in re-electing Governor Nathan Deal and U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, as well as numerous state legislators. He went on to serve as Communications Director and Senior Strategist for Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgians First Transition Committee, and later as a Senior Advisor to U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler, Insurance Commissioner John King, and Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-6).
Beyond politics, Ryan has provided strategic counsel to Fortune 500 companies, nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, and government entities—bringing a results-driven approach to every project.
An avid writer, public speaker, and presenter, Ryan is deeply committed to civic engagement and community service. He is a graduate of Leadership Augusta (Class of 2012), a board member for the Boys and Girls Club of the CSRA, and a member of the Exchange Club of Augusta. In 2019, he was honored as Young Alumni of the Year by Southern Miss and served on the university’s Alumni Association Board of Directors. He currently serves on the National Board of Directors for Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity.
Ryan lives in Augusta, Georgia, with his wife, Dr. Holly Mahoney, their two daughters, and their dog, Mr. Gibbs. The Mahoneys are active members of Trinity on the Hill Global Methodist Church, where Ryan serves on the Foundation Board of Directors.
Alex Browning
Vice President, Strategy and Operations
Alex Browning was born and raised in the suburbs of Atlanta. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Georgia and a Master of Business Administration from UGA’s Terry College of Business with a focus in entrepreneurship and crisis communications.
With over 15 years of experience in public policy, communications, and political strategy, Alex has held key roles in government and politics on both the state and federal level. His career includes work on Capitol Hill, gubernatorial campaigns, federal and statewide campaigns in Washington, D.C., Georgia, Colorado, and Illinois.
In addition to his political work, Alex has advised companies and organizations on corporate strategy, crisis management, and public policy initiatives. He is a skilled storyteller, strategic planner, and media relations expert, helping clients navigate complex challenges and achieve success. Alex is dedicated to advancing strategies that drive impactful outcomes in both public and private sectors.
Alex resides in the Morningside neighborhood of Atlanta with his fiancé Jenn and golden retriever Maggie.