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The Roll Call Fabulous 50
Last updated: February 2013
Roll Call’s Fabulous 50 showcases Capitol Hill’s leading staffers – the people behind the scenes who wield the power and drive their party’s message.
Roll Call’s House and Senate reporters and editors determine the list based on their institutional knowledge of what positions hold the most power, as well as shoe-leather reporting on which individuals, regardless of position, wield the most influence.
Each staffer’s value is then determined based on the following criteria:
Mastery
Awarded to the Hill's policy and procedural experts
Spin
Given to Congress' best communicators, who help set the tone and frame the debate
Influence
Given to the individuals who drive the agenda, cut the deals, craft legislation and sway members
Access
Awarded to those staffers who are in the room when decisions are made
Click entries for more information
Gary
Andres
Majority Staff Director,
House Energy and Commerce Committee
Date of Birth: February 19, 1955
Hometown: Chicago, Ill.
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Illinois at Chicago - PhD, public policy (1982)
University of Illinois at Chicago - MA (1980)
Wheaton College (Ill.) - BA (1977)
Lake Park High School (Roselle, Ill.)
Employment History (most recent):
Republican Staff Director
House Energy and Commerce Committee
Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Energy and Commerce Committee
Rep. Fred Upton (R-MI)
(Jan. 2011-)
Vice Chairman of Public Policy and Research
Dutko Worldwide
(1993-2010)
Dutko Worldwide
(1993-2010)
Deputy Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs (House)
George Herbert Walker Bush
George Herbert Walker Bush
Special Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs
George Herbert Walker Bush
(1989-June 1991)
George Herbert Walker Bush
(1989-June 1991)
Office of Congressional Affairs Aide
George Bush Presidential Transition Office Bush, George Herbert Walker
(Nov. 1988-Jan. 1989)
George Bush Presidential Transition Office Bush, George Herbert Walker
(Nov. 1988-Jan. 1989)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Carries weight as a policy heavyweight who cut his chops working for George H. W. Bush
Influence: Benefits from key alliances on the Hill and off
Katie
Beirne
Staff Director,
Senate Democratic Policy & Communications Center
Date of Birth: December 26, 1975
Hometown: Cleveland, Ohio
Gender: Female
Education:
London School of Economics and Political Science - MSc, comparative politics (1999-2000)
Queen's University Belfast (Northern Ireland) - MA, ethnic conflict regulation (1998-1999)
University of Notre Dame - BA, government, international studies, summa cum laude (1994-1998)
Employment History (most recent):
Staff Director
Senate Democratic Policy and Communications Center
(Jan. 2011-)
Senate Democratic Policy and Communications Center
(Jan. 2011-)
Legislative Director
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Nov. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Nov. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Deputy Staff Director for Policy
Joint Economic Committee
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Jan. 2007-Nov. 2007)
Joint Economic Committee
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Jan. 2007-Nov. 2007)
Subcontractor
Competition Policy Associates Inc.
(Jan. 2006-Dec. 2006)
Competition Policy Associates Inc.
(Jan. 2006-Dec. 2006)
Policy Director
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
(July 2005-Dec. 2006)
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
(July 2005-Dec. 2006)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Manages the policy portion of the war room
Influence: Drives agenda with her advice on policy objectives
Access: Has front-row seat for policy and communications decisions
Tim
Berry
Chief of Staff,
House Majority Whip
Date of Birth: February 25, 1968
Hometown: Silver Spring, Md.
Gender: Male
Education:
Middlebury College - BA, history (1986-1991)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
House Republican Whip
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Chief of Staff
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(Jan. 2003-Sept. 2005)
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(Jan. 2003-Sept. 2005)
Chief of Staff
House Republican Whip
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(Sept. 2002-Jan. 2003)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(Sept. 2002-Jan. 2003)
Policy Analyst
House Republican Whip
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(1996-1998)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(1996-1998)
Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Whip
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(Feb. 1999-Sept. 2002)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
(Feb. 1999-Sept. 2002)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Has the institutional knowledge and strategic mind of a longtime leadership veteran
Influence: Shapes all aspects of the House Republican whip operation
Access: Gives critical input in private House GOP leadership meetings
Neil
Bradley
Deputy Chief of Staff,
House Majority Leader
Date of Birth: October 29, 1975
Hometown: Sapulpa, Okla.
Gender: Male
Education:
Georgetown University - BA (1998)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Legislative Director
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Legislative Director
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(April 2005-Jan. 2009)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(April 2005-Jan. 2009)
Policy Director
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(June 2004-April 2005)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(June 2004-April 2005)
Executive Director
Republican Study Committee
(Jan. 1999-May 2004)
Republican Study Committee
(Jan. 1999-May 2004)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Uses his knowledge of history to brainstorm innovative policy ideas
Access: Is in all the important discussions on big policy fights
Chris
Campbell
Minority Staff Director,
Senate Finance Committee
Hometown: Hemet, Calif.
Gender: Male
Education:
Garvin School of International Management - MBA (2006)
University of California at Santa Barbara - BA, political science (1998)
Employment History (most recent):
Republican Staff Director
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-UT)
(Dec. 2010-)
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-UT)
(Dec. 2010-)
Deputy Legislative Director
Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-UT)
(Oct. 2006-Nov. 2010)
Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-UT)
(Oct. 2006-Nov. 2010)
President
Campbell Enterprises
(2004-2006)
Campbell Enterprises
(2004-2006)
Professional Staff Member
Senate Judiciary Committee
Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-UT)
(Dec. 2000-Jan. 2004)
Senate Judiciary Committee
Sen. Orrin G. Hatch (R-UT)
(Dec. 2000-Jan. 2004)
National Field Director
Orrin Hatch for President
(1999-2000)
Orrin Hatch for President
(1999-2000)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Organizes GOP agenda on tax and trade issues
Influence: Has the ear of Hatch, for whom he's worked on and off since 2000
Guy
Cecil
Executive Director,
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Hometown: Miami, Fla.
Gender: Male
Education:
North Miami Beach (Fla.) Senior High (1992)
University of Florida (Gainesville) - Political science
Employment History (most recent):
Executive Director
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Bennet, Michael Farrand
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO)
(Jan. 2013-)
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee Bennet, Michael Farrand
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO)
(Jan. 2013-)
Executive Director
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee
Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Chief of Staff
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO)
(Oct. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Sen. Michael Bennet (D-CO)
(Oct. 2009-Jan. 2011)
President
Thomas Circle Strategies
(2008-2009)
Thomas Circle Strategies
(2008-2009)
National Political and Field Director
Hillary Clinton for President Clinton, Hillary Rodham
(Oct. 2007-July 2008)
Hillary Clinton for President Clinton, Hillary Rodham
(Oct. 2007-July 2008)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Has good rapport with senators as only 2012 executive director to return for 2014
Spin: Knows how to frame the debate in campaigns, as he proved in 2012
Rob
Collins
Executive Director,
National Republican Senatorial Committee
Date of Birth: January 22, 1976
Hometown: Syracuse, N.Y.
Gender: Male
Education:
Franklin and Marshall College - BA, government, history
Employment History (most recent):
Executive Director
National Republican Senatorial Committee Moran, Jerry
Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS)
(Jan. 2013-)
National Republican Senatorial Committee Moran, Jerry
Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS)
(Jan. 2013-)
Partner
Purple Strategies LLC
(July 2011-Jan. 2013)
Purple Strategies LLC
(July 2011-Jan. 2013)
President
American Action Network
(Feb. 2010-July 2011)
American Action Network
(Feb. 2010-July 2011)
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Feb. 2010)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Feb. 2010)
Chief of Staff
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Feb. 2004-Jan. 2009)
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Feb. 2004-Jan. 2009)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Has a unique window into the super PAC world and good relations with GOP leaders in House and Senate
Spin: Has good reputation among reporters
Amber
Cottle
Majority Staff Director,
Senate Finance Committee
Gender: Female
Education:
University of Chicago Law School - JD (1996)
St. Louis University - BA, political science (1993)
Employment History (most recent):
Staff Director
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(Jan. 2013-)
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(Jan. 2013-)
Chief International Trade Counsel
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(2009-Jan. 2013)
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(2009-Jan. 2013)
International Trade Counsel
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(Feb. 2007-2009)
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(Feb. 2007-2009)
Deputy Assistant U.S. Trade Representative
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
(2003-2007)
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
(2003-2007)
Assistant General Counsel
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
(2001-2003)
Office of the U.S. Trade Representative
(2001-2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Boasts vast experience in economic and international policy
Influence: Is respected in business, labor, policy and academic communities as former Bush trade official
Alexis
Covey-Brandt
Chief of Staff,
House Minority Whip
Date of Birth: February 19, 1979
Hometown: Bethesda, Md.
Gender: Female
Education:
Haverford College - Bachelor's, African studies, anthropology (2001)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Dec. 2011-)
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Dec. 2011-)
Floor Director
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny Hamilton Hoyer (D-MD)
(Jan. 2011-Dec. 2011)
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny Hamilton Hoyer (D-MD)
(Jan. 2011-Dec. 2011)
Floor Director
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(March 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(March 2009-Jan. 2011)
Deputy Floor Director
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Feb. 2008-Feb. 2009)
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Feb. 2008-Feb. 2009)
Floor Assistant/Deputy Director, Member Services
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(April 2007-Feb. 2008)
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(April 2007-Feb. 2008)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Boasts procedural process experience from her time as Hoyer's floor director
Influence: Relies on her great relationships with members to help manage coalitions
Bill
Dauster
Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy,
Senate Majority Leader
Date of Birth: November 25, 1957
Hometown: Sacramento, Calif.
Gender: Male
Education:
Columbia University School of Law - JD (1981-1984)
University of Southern California - MA, economics (1978-1981)
University of Southern California - BA, economics, political science, international relations, magna cum laude (1974-1978)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Assistant to the Leader for Floor Operations
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Feb. 2011-)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Feb. 2011-)
Deputy Staff Director and General Counsel
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(April 2003-Feb. 2011)
Senate Finance Committee
Sen. Max Baucus (D-MT)
(April 2003-Feb. 2011)
Senior Counsel and Legislative Director
Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI)
(2000-2003)
Sen. Russ Feingold (D-WI)
(2000-2003)
Deputy Director
National Economic Council
(1999-2000)
National Economic Council
(1999-2000)
Counselor
Presidential Exploratory Committee of Paul Wellstone (D-Minn.)
(1998-1999)
Presidential Exploratory Committee of Paul Wellstone (D-Minn.)
(1998-1999)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Wrote the book on the budget process
Influence: Provides key procedural and policy counsel
Access: Engages in the top-level policy debates
Reema
Dodin
Floor Director,
Senate Majority Whip
Hometown: Irvine, Calif.
Gender: Female
Education:
University of Illinois College of Law - JD (2003-2006)
University of California Berkeley - BA, economics and political science (1998-2002)
Employment History (most recent):
Floor Director
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Sept. 2011-)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Sept. 2011-)
Floor Counsel
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Jan. 2009-Sept. 2011)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Jan. 2009-Sept. 2011)
Research Director
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(May 2008-Jan. 2009)
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(May 2008-Jan. 2009)
Legislative Aide
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(March 2007-2008)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(March 2007-2008)
Research Assistant
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Sept. 2006-Feb. 2007)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Sept. 2006-Feb. 2007)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows floor strategy like few others
Bill
Duhnke
Minority Staff Director,
Senate Appropriations Committee
Date of Birth: April 25, 1962
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wis.
Gender: Male
Education:
Catholic University of America Columbus School of Law - JD (1992-1996)
University of Wisconsin Madison - BA (1980-1984)
Employment History (most recent):
Republican Staff Director and General Counsel
Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(Jan. 2007-)
Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(Jan. 2007-)
Staff Director
Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(July 2006-Jan. 2007)
Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(July 2006-Jan. 2007)
Staff Director/Chief Counsel
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
Sen. Pat Roberts (R-KS)
(Jan. 2003-July 2006)
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
Sen. Pat Roberts (R-KS)
(Jan. 2003-July 2006)
Various positions up to Republican Staff Director/Chief Counsel
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(1997-Jan. 2003)
Senate Select Committee on Intelligence
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(1997-Jan. 2003)
Military Legislative Assistant
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(1995-1997)
Sen. Richard C. Shelby (R-AL)
(1995-1997)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Is a veteran of the bruising Dodd-Frank financial overhaul debate
Sage
Eastman
Strategy and Public Affairs Director,
House Ways and Means Committee
Gender: Male
Education:
Kalamazoo College - Bachelor's, political science
Employment History (most recent):
Strategy and Public Affairs Director
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. David Camp (R-MI)
(Jan. 2012-)
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. David Camp (R-MI)
(Jan. 2012-)
Deputy Staff Director
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2012)
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2012)
Senior Adviser, Publicity and Media Affairs
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Feb. 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Feb. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Staff Assistant
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Feb. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Feb. 2009-Jan. 2011)
District Communications Director
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Oct. 2003-June 2009)
Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
(Oct. 2003-June 2009)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows tax and trade policy inside and out
Influence: Guides key policy and communications decisions for the committee
Access: Controls access to Camp as his right-hand man
Brian
Fallon
Communications Director,
Senate Democratic Policy & Communications Center
Hometown: Methuen, Mass.
Gender: Male
Education:
Harvard University - Bachelor's, government, cum laude (2003)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief Spokesman
Senate Democratic Policy and Communications Center
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Jan. 2011-)
Senate Democratic Policy and Communications Center
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Jan. 2011-)
Communications Director
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Oct. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Oct. 2009-Jan. 2011)
National Press Secretary
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(July 2007-Sept. 2009)
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(July 2007-Sept. 2009)
Press Secretary
Menendez for Senate
-2006
Menendez for Senate
-2006
Director
Manchester (N.H.) City Democrats
-2005
Manchester (N.H.) City Democrats
-2005
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Sways leadership on policy and communications decisions
Spin: Frames debate for the entire Senate Democratic Conference
Hugh
Halpern
Majority Staff Director,
House Rules Committee
Date of Birth: July 21, 1969
Hometown: Hollidaysburg, Pa.
Gender: Male
Education:
George Mason University School of Law - JD (1993-1997)
American University - MA, political science (1991-1992)
American University - BA, political science, cum laude (1987-1991)
Employment History (most recent):
Republican Staff Director
House Rules Committee
(Jan. 2013-)
House Rules Committee
(Jan. 2013-)
Republican Staff Director
House Rules Committee
Rep. David Dreier (R-CA)
(2005-Jan. 2013)
House Rules Committee
Rep. David Dreier (R-CA)
(2005-Jan. 2013)
General Counsel
House Financial Services Committee
Rep. Mike Oxley (R-OH)
(2003-2005)
House Financial Services Committee
Rep. Mike Oxley (R-OH)
(2003-2005)
Parliamentarian and Director of Legislative Operations
House Financial Services Committee
Rep. Mike Oxley (R-OH)
(2001-2003)
House Financial Services Committee
Rep. Mike Oxley (R-OH)
(2001-2003)
Parliamentarian (Detailed)
House Homeland Security Committee
Rep. Dick Armey (R-TX)
-2002
House Homeland Security Committee
Rep. Dick Armey (R-TX)
-2002
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Boasts an encyclopedic knowledge of complex House floor and parliamentary procedure
Liesl
Hickey
Executive Director,
National Republican Congressional Committee
Gender: Female
Employment History (most recent):
Executive Director
National Republican Congressional Committee
(Nov. 2012-)
National Republican Congressional Committee
(Nov. 2012-)
Director, Patriot Program
National Republican Congressional Committee
(Jan. 2011-Nov. 2012)
National Republican Congressional Committee
(Jan. 2011-Nov. 2012)
Adviser
National Republican Senatorial Committee
National Republican Senatorial Committee
Senior Director
ONE
ONE
Chief of Staff
Sen. Mark S. Kirk (R-IL)
(Aug. 2004-April 2007)
Sen. Mark S. Kirk (R-IL)
(Aug. 2004-April 2007)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Has worked in the trenches on difficult campaigns and has a long résumé with centrist House members
Spin: Has good reputation among reporters
Josh
Holmes
Chief of Staff,
Sen. Mitch McConnell
Date of Birth: April 7, 1979
Hometown: Minnetonka, Minn.
Gender: Male
Education:
Arizona State University - BA, political science and justice studies (1997-2002)
Minnetonka (Minn.) High School - Diploma (1997)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Nov. 2010-)
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Nov. 2010-)
Staff Director, Senate Republican Communications Center
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-Sept. 2010)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-Sept. 2010)
Communications Consulting
National Republican Senatorial Committee
-2010
National Republican Senatorial Committee
-2010
Director of Rapid Response
Republican National Committee
(2005-2007)
Republican National Committee
(2005-2007)
Policy Director
Nethercutt for Senate
(April 2004-Dec. 2004)
Nethercutt for Senate
(April 2004-Dec. 2004)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Advises McConnell on political strategy
Spin: Is key player in framing debate for GOP Conference
Charles
Houy
Majority Staff Director,
Senate Appropriations Committee
Gender: Male
Employment History (most recent):
Democratic Staff Director
Senate Appropriations Committee
Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD)
(Jan. 2013-)
Senate Appropriations Committee
Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD)
(Jan. 2013-)
Democratic Staff Director
Senate Appropriations Committee
Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI)
(2009-Jan. 2013)
Senate Appropriations Committee
Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI)
(2009-Jan. 2013)
Democratic Clerk
Senate Appropriations Committee, Defense Subcommittee
Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI)
(1995-2009)
Senate Appropriations Committee, Defense Subcommittee
Sen. Daniel K. Inouye (D-HI)
(1995-2009)
Professional Staff Member
Senate Appropriations Committee
(1987-1995)
Senate Appropriations Committee
(1987-1995)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows ins and outs of the federal budget
Influence: Drafts a myriad of spending bills
Bill
Inglee
Chief Clerk/Majority Staff Director,
House Appropriations Committee
Date of Birth: March 20, 1949
Hometown: Malone, N.Y.
Gender: Male
Education:
Carleton University Institute of European, Russian and Eurasian Studies - BA, Soviet studies, with honors (1974-1975)
Georgetown University Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service - BS, foreign service (1967-1972)
Employment History (most recent):
Republican Staff Director/Chief Clerk
House Appropriations Committee
Rep. Harold Rogers (R-KY)
(Dec. 2010-)
House Appropriations Committee
Rep. Harold Rogers (R-KY)
(Dec. 2010-)
Various positions up to Vice President, Global Security Policy
Lockheed Martin Corp.
(2000-2010)
Lockheed Martin Corp.
(2000-2010)
Policy Adviser, National Security and Trade Affairs
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL)
(1999-2000)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL)
(1999-2000)
Staff Assistant
House Appropriations Committee, Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs Subcommittee
(1995-1998)
House Appropriations Committee, Foreign Operations, Export Financing and Related Programs Subcommittee
(1995-1998)
Executive Director
House Wednesday Group
(1994-1995)
House Wednesday Group
(1994-1995)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Understands how the sausage is made after two decades on the Hill
Influence: Knows the inner workings of the House and the defense industry
David
Krone
Chief of Staff,
Senate Majority Leader
Date of Birth: October 30, 1966
Hometown: Philadelphia, Pa.
Gender: Male
Education:
Pennsylvania State University - BA, political science (1989)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff for the Majority Leader
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2011-)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2011-)
Deputy Chief of Staff
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2010-2011)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2010-2011)
Senior Adviser
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Dec. 2008-2010)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Dec. 2008-2010)
Senior Vice President for Corporate Affairs
Comcast Corp.
(Jan. 2008-Oct. 2008)
Comcast Corp.
(Jan. 2008-Oct. 2008)
Executive Vice President
National Cable and Telecommunications Association
(July 1, 2002-Sept. 2007)
National Cable and Telecommunications Association
(July 1, 2002-Sept. 2007)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Steers the Senate policy and procedural ship for the leader
Influence: Cuts the deals with House Republicans and others
Access: Is in virtually every room where a big decision is being made
Rohit
Kumar
Deputy Chief of Staff,
Senate Minority Leader
Date of Birth: June 2, 1974
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Virginia School of Law - JD (2000)
Duke University - AB, political science and economics (1995)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(2010-)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(2010-)
Domestic Policy Director
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-2010)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-2010)
Health Policy Adviser
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(June 2006-Jan. 2007)
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(June 2006-Jan. 2007)
Policy Adviser and Counsel
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(Dec. 2002-June 2006)
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(Dec. 2002-June 2006)
Policy Adviser
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
(June 2002-Dec. 2002)
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
(June 2002-Dec. 2002)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Is veteran legislative aide to GOP leaders
Influence: Plays key role in debates over bills reaching the Senate floor
Access: Carries clout in advancing key policy priorities
George
Kundanis
Deputy Chief of Staff,
House Minority Leader
Date of Birth: February 13, 1950
Hometown: Chicago, Ill.
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Wisconsin Madison - PhD, political science (1982)
University of Wisconsin Madison - MA, political science (1972)
Northwestern University - BA, political science (1971)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Office of the Speaker (Democratic)
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(2007-Jan. 2011)
House Office of the Speaker (Democratic)
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(2007-Jan. 2011)
Special Assistant
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(2002-2006)
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(2002-2006)
Special Assistant
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Richard A. Gephardt (D-MO)
(1995-2002)
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Richard A. Gephardt (D-MO)
(1995-2002)
Executive Director
House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee
(1989-1995)
House Democratic Steering and Policy Committee
(1989-1995)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Is a master of floor procedure with more than 30 years on the Hill
Influence: Has forged key relationships with members over the decades in Democratic leadership circles
Nadeam
Elshami
Chief of Staff,
House Minority Leader
Date of Birth: April 29, 1970
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Evansville - BBA, international business (1987-1991)
Employment History (most recent):
Communications Director/Senior Adviser
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Deputy Communications Director
House Office of the Speaker (Democratic)
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(Feb. 2007-Jan. 2011)
House Office of the Speaker (Democratic)
Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
(Feb. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Senior Communications Adviser
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(2006-Feb. 2007)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(2006-Feb. 2007)
Deputy Communications Director
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(2005-2006)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(2005-2006)
Press Secretary
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
-2005
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
-2005
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Spin: Boasts experience as Pelosi messaging guru
Access: Attends high-level meetings
Brett
Loper
Deputy Chief of Staff,
Speaker
Date of Birth: August 4, 1973
Hometown: Jackson, Miss.
Gender: Male
Education:
George Washington University School of Business - MBA (2002)
Villanova University - BA, economics (1995)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Sept. 2012-)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Sept. 2012-)
Policy Director
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-Sept. 2012)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-Sept. 2012)
Senior Executive Vice President
Advanced Medical Technology Association
(May 2008-Jan. 2011)
Advanced Medical Technology Association
(May 2008-Jan. 2011)
Republican Staff Director
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. Jim McCrery (R-LA)
(Jan. 2007-April 2008)
House Ways and Means Committee
Rep. Jim McCrery (R-LA)
(Jan. 2007-April 2008)
Chief of Staff
Rep. Jim McCrery (R-LA)
(Feb. 2006-Jan. 2007)
Rep. Jim McCrery (R-LA)
(Feb. 2006-Jan. 2007)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Boasts policy/procedural expertise from varied experience on the Hill
Influence: Has built relationships from tenures in different leadership offices
Access: Is a key participant in major negotiations
Mike
Lynch
Chief of Staff,
Senate Democratic Conference Vice Chairman
Date of Birth: June 2, 1967
Gender: Male
Education:
James Madison University - BS, political science and social science (1989)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Feb. 2007-)
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(Feb. 2007-)
Serbia Country Director
National Democratic Institute
(2005-2007)
National Democratic Institute
(2005-2007)
Chief of Staff
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(2002-April 2005)
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(2002-April 2005)
State Director
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(1999-2002)
Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-NY)
(1999-2002)
Field Director
Charles E. Schumer for Senate Schumer, Charles Ellis
-1998
Charles E. Schumer for Senate Schumer, Charles Ellis
-1998
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Sways boss on political issues and is key 'fixer' for other senators
Access: Is in the room for key political and policy decisions
David
McCallum
Deputy Chief of Staff,
Senate Majority Leader
Date of Birth: May 23, 1954
Hometown: Louisville, Ky.
Gender: Male
Education:
Tulane University (1977-1978)
University of Louisville - BA, philosophy (1972-1977)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2001-)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2001-)
Administrative Officer
Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-NY)
(1999-2001)
Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-NY)
(1999-2001)
Director of Operations
Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD)
(1997-1999)
Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski (D-MD)
(1997-1999)
Manager
Unisys Corp.
(1995-1997)
Unisys Corp.
(1995-1997)
Manager
INSLAW Inc.
(1991-1994)
INSLAW Inc.
(1991-1994)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows how to manipulate internal Senate rules
Influence: Plays 'fixer' and smoothes ruffled feathers when there is internal Senate drama
Dena
Morris
Legislative Director,
Senate Majority Whip
Gender: Female
Education:
Georgetown University - Master's, public policy
Indiana University Bloomington - Bachelor's, political science
Employment History (most recent):
Legislative Director
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Jan. 2007-)
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Jan. 2007-)
Legislative Assistant
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Dec. 2003-Dec. 2006)
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Dec. 2003-Dec. 2006)
Lobbyist
FaegreBD Consulting
(1998-2003)
FaegreBD Consulting
(1998-2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows policy nuances of boss's broad portfolio of interests
Gary
Myrick
Secretary for Senate Majority,
Office of the Secretary for the Majority
Date of Birth: July 20, 1967
Hometown: Gilford, Maine
Gender: Male
Education:
American University Washington College of Law - JD (1994)
University of Maine (Orono) - BA (1989)
Employment History (most recent):
Secretary for the Majority
Senate Democratic Secretary
(Jan. 2011-)
Senate Democratic Secretary
(Jan. 2011-)
Chief of Staff
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Deputy Chief of Staff
Senate Democratic Minority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2005-2006)
Senate Democratic Minority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2005-2006)
Floor Assistant
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2003-2004)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2003-2004)
Floor Assistant
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Tom Daschle (D-SD)
(2001-2003)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Tom Daschle (D-SD)
(2001-2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows Senate rules backward and forward
Influence: Gives key procedural advice on how or whether to move forward with certain measures
Access: Is in on high-level discussions of how measures will move on the floor
Kyle
Nevins
Deputy Chief of Staff,
House Majority Leader
Date of Birth: November 23, 1979
Hometown: Chapel Hill, N.C.
Gender: Male
Education:
Duke University - BA (2002)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(April 2007-Jan. 2009)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(April 2007-Jan. 2009)
Chief Floor Assistant
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Jan. 2005-March 2007)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Jan. 2005-March 2007)
Floor Assistant/Aide
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Jan. 2003-Dec. 2004)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Jan. 2003-Dec. 2004)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Runs the floor agenda with precision for House Republicans
Access: Knows the members and watches almost every vote from the House floor
Katie
Patru
Director of Member Services and Events,
House Republican Conference
Gender: Female
Education:
Wingate University - Bachelor's, communications, public relations, magna cum laude (1998-2002)
Employment History (most recent):
Director of Member Services
House Republican Conference
Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA)
(Jan. 2013-)
House Republican Conference
Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA)
(Jan. 2013-)
Director of Member Services
House Republican Conference
Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
House Republican Conference
Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-TX)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Director of Member Services
House Republican Conference
Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN)
(Jan. 2009-2011)
House Republican Conference
Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN)
(Jan. 2009-2011)
Director of Member Services
House Republican Conference
Rep. Adam H. Putnam (R-FL)
(Dec. 2007-Jan. 2009)
House Republican Conference
Rep. Adam H. Putnam (R-FL)
(Dec. 2007-Jan. 2009)
Deputy Director of Internal Communications
House Republican Conference
Rep. Adam H. Putnam (R-FL)
(May 2007-Dec. 2007)
House Republican Conference
Rep. Adam H. Putnam (R-FL)
(May 2007-Dec. 2007)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Serves as the voice of institutional knowledge for the GOP Conference
Access: Anticipates members' needs before they know themselves
Brian
Romick
Whip Director and Senior Adviser,
House Minority Whip
Date of Birth: November 10, 1976
Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Maryland, College Park - Bachelor's, government, politics (1998)
Employment History (most recent):
Whip Director/Member Services Director
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Jan. 2011-)
Member Services Director
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(March 2007-Jan. 2011)
House Democratic Majority Leader
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(March 2007-Jan. 2011)
Floor Assistant/Member Services Director
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Jan. 2003-Jan. 2007)
House Democratic Whip
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(Jan. 2003-Jan. 2007)
Special Assistant
House Administration Committee
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(1999-Jan. 2003)
House Administration Committee
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
(1999-Jan. 2003)
Staff Assistant
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
-1998
Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
-1998
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Shapes and enforces the House Democratic whip operation
Evan
Schatz
Majority Chief of Staff,
Senate Budget Committee
Gender: Male
Education:
Western Washington University
Employment History (most recent):
Democratic Staff Director
Senate Budget Committee
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2013-)
Senate Budget Committee
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2013-)
Deputy Chief of Staff
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Legislative Director
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(2007-Jan. 2011)
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(2007-Jan. 2011)
Legislative Assistant
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(April 2005-2007)
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(April 2005-2007)
Legislative Director
Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA)
(Jan. 2004-April 2005)
Rep. Rick Larsen (D-WA)
(Jan. 2004-April 2005)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows the ropes after being promoted to deputy chief two years ago
David
Schiappa
Secretary for the Senate Minority,
Office of the Secretary for the Minority
Date of Birth: November 3, 1962
Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Gender: Male
Education:
Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School - MS
University of Maryland, College Park - BA (1984)
Employment History (most recent):
Secretary
Senate Republican Cloakroom
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-)
Senate Republican Cloakroom
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-)
Secretary
Senate Republican Cloakroom
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(Jan. 2003-Jan. 2007)
Senate Republican Cloakroom
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(Jan. 2003-Jan. 2007)
Secretary
Senate Republican Cloakroom
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
(2001-Jan. 2003)
Senate Republican Cloakroom
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
(2001-Jan. 2003)
Assistant Secretary for the Majority
Senate Republican Cloakroom
(1996-2001)
Senate Republican Cloakroom
(1996-2001)
Republican Floor Assistant
Senate Republican Cloakroom
(1994-1996)
Senate Republican Cloakroom
(1994-1996)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Is a top-floor strategist
Influence: Advises senators on procedural nuances
Access: Is engaged in all aspects of legislative scheduling
Dave
Schnittger
Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications Operations,
Speaker
Date of Birth: January 22, 1971
Hometown: West Chester, Ohio
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Dayton - BA, political science and economics (1993)
Archbishop Moeller High School (Cincinnati, Ohio) - Diploma
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff, Community Operations
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-)
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Deputy Chief of Staff
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Dec. 2005-Jan. 2007)
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Dec. 2005-Jan. 2007)
Director of Communications
House Education and the Workforce Committee
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Feb. 2001-Dec. 2005)
House Education and the Workforce Committee
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Feb. 2001-Dec. 2005)
Press Secretary
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(1997-Jan. 2001)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(1997-Jan. 2001)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Captures the speaker's voice as only a longtime Boehner staffer could
Spin: Calls the shots from a strategic communications standpoint
Dan
Schwager
Staff Director,
House Ethics Committee
Gender: Male
Education:
New York University School of Law - Law degree (1998)
Bates College - Bachelor's (1993)
Employment History (most recent):
Staff Director and Chief Counsel
House Ethics Committee
(May 2011-)
House Ethics Committee
(May 2011-)
Counsel
Senate Select Committee on Ethics
(Feb. 2009-May 2011)
Senate Select Committee on Ethics
(Feb. 2009-May 2011)
Prosecutor
U.S. Department of Justice Public Integrity Section
(2009-2003)
U.S. Department of Justice Public Integrity Section
(2009-2003)
Assistant District Attorney
New York County District Attorney's Office
(1998-2003)
New York County District Attorney's Office
(1998-2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Knows better than panel members what is ethically permissible
Doug
Schwartz
Chief of Staff,
Senate Republican Conference
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Cincinnati College of Law - JD (1997)
Georgetown University Law Center - LLM
DePauw University - BA
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Senate Republican Conference Committee
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
(Jan. 2012-)
Senate Republican Conference Committee
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
(Jan. 2012-)
Staff Director
Senate Republican Policy Committee
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
(2010-Jan. 2012)
Senate Republican Policy Committee
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
(2010-Jan. 2012)
Deputy Staff Director
Senate Republican Policy Committee
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
(2009-2010)
Senate Republican Policy Committee
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
(2009-2010)
Policy Director/Counsel
Senate Republican Conference Committee Secretary
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
-2009
Senate Republican Conference Committee Secretary
Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
-2009
Chief of Staff for the Under Secretary of Energy
U.S. Department of Energy
(2005-2009)
U.S. Department of Energy
(2005-2009)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Spin: Develops the message for the GOP Conference
Austin
Smythe
Majority Staff Director,
House Budget Committee
Date of Birth: June 29, 1956
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Texas at Austin Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs - MA (1980)
University of Texas at Austin - BA, government
Employment History (most recent):
Republican Staff Director
House Budget Committee
Rep. Paul D. Ryan (R-WI)
(Dec. 2007-)
House Budget Committee
Rep. Paul D. Ryan (R-WI)
(Dec. 2007-)
Executive Associate Director
Office of Management and Budget
(2001-2007)
Office of Management and Budget
(2001-2007)
Vice President, Equity Research Division
Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.
(1999-2001)
Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc.
(1999-2001)
Adviser
Bush-Cheney 2000
-2000
Bush-Cheney 2000
-2000
Assistant Staff Director
Senate Budget Committee
Sen. Pete V. Domenici (R-NM)
(1988-1999)
Senate Budget Committee
Sen. Pete V. Domenici (R-NM)
(1988-1999)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Is a budget wonk
Influence: Has the ear of a former vice presidential candidate
Sharon
Soderstrom
Chief of Staff,
Senate Minority Leader
Gender: Female
Education:
University of Virginia - BA, English (1983)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Feb. 2010-)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Feb. 2010-)
Deputy Chief of Staff
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-Feb. 2010)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-Feb. 2010)
Deputy Chief of Staff
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(2004-2006)
Senate Republican Majority Leader
Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN)
(2004-2006)
Republican Staff Director
Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH)
(2003-2004)
Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
Sen. Judd Gregg (R-NH)
(2003-2004)
Senior Policy Adviser
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
(June 2001-2002)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
(June 2001-2002)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Has institutional memory, procedural prowess and more as veteran staffer for two former leaders
Influence: Coordinates with other leadership offices in both chambers
Access: Is a close confidant of her boss and a key staffer in high-level talks
Mike
Sommers
Deputy Chief of Staff for Leadership Operations,
Speaker
Date of Birth: January 30, 1975
Hometown: Naperville, Ill.
Gender: Male
Education:
Miami University (Ohio) - BA, political science (1993-1997)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(June 2012-)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(June 2012-)
Deputy Chief of Staff for Lead Operations
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-June 2012)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-June 2012)
Policy Director
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Policy Director
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(March 2006-Jan. 2007)
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(March 2006-Jan. 2007)
Special Assistant to the President for Agricultural Trade and Food Assistance
National Economic Council
(2005-2006)
National Economic Council
(2005-2006)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Masterminds every aspect of House Republicans' strategy
Influence: Trusted by all the leaders and a broad range of members
Access: Knows exactly what the speaker thinks and values more than anyone
Pat
Souders
Chief of Staff,
Senate Majority Whip
Date of Birth: January 20, 1969
Gender: Male
Education:
Georgetown University - MA, liberal studies (1999)
Marquette University - BA, broadcast communications (1987-1991)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Jan. 2005-)
Senate Democratic Whip
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(Jan. 2005-)
Projects Director/Legislative Assistant
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(1997-Jan. 2005)
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(1997-Jan. 2005)
Legislative Assistant
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(1991-1996)
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
(1991-1996)
Intern
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
-1991
Sen. Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
-1991
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Navigates deals for boss
Access: Is in the room for leadership-level meetings
Mike
Spahn
Staff Director,
Senate Democratic Conference Secretary
Hometown: Milwaukee, Wis.
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Michigan - Bachelor's (1997-2001)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Senate Secretary for the Majority
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Senate Secretary for the Majority
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Staff Director
Senate Democratic Secretary
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Senate Democratic Secretary
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(Jan. 2007-Jan. 2011)
Press Secretary
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(April 2004-Jan. 2011)
Sen. Patty Murray (D-WA)
(April 2004-Jan. 2011)
Personal Assistant
Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA)
(Aug. 2003-Nov. 2003)
Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA)
(Aug. 2003-Nov. 2003)
Deputy Press Secretary
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA)
(Jan. 2002-July 2003)
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy (D-MA)
(Jan. 2002-July 2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Drives agenda, plays 'fixer' for internal Senate drama and cuts deals
Spin: Knows how to frame the debate
Access: Is key voice in Senate leadership meetings
Jo-Marie
St. Martin Green
General Counsel and Chief of Legislative Operations,
Speaker
Date of Birth: February 10, 1960
Hometown: Kingsport, Tenn.
Gender: Female
Education:
University of Tennessee College of Law - JD (1985)
Mary Washington College - BS, summa cum laude, final honors and highest distinction (1982)
Employment History (most recent):
General Counsel/Chief of Legislative Operations
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Office of the Speaker (Republican)
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2011-)
General Counsel/Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
General Counsel/Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Steering Committee
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2008-Dec. 2008)
House Republican Steering Committee
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2008-Dec. 2008)
General Counsel/Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2007-Dec. 2007)
House Republican Minority Leader
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2007-Dec. 2007)
General Counsel
House Education and the Workforce Committee
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2001-Jan. 2006)
House Education and the Workforce Committee
Rep. John A. Boehner (R-OH)
(Jan. 2001-Jan. 2006)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Gives key parliamentary advice directly to the speaker
Access: Has been with Boehner before his leadership days and has his ear
Don
Stewart
Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications,
Senate Minority Leader
Date of Birth: July 3, 1967
Hometown: Riverside, Calif.
Gender: Male
Education:
Armstrong Atlantic State University - BA, political science (1997)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff for Communications
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Feb. 2011-)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Feb. 2011-)
Communications Director
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-Feb. 2011)
Senate Republican Minority Leader
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(Jan. 2007-Feb. 2011)
Communications Director
Senate Republican Whip
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(2006-Jan. 2007)
Senate Republican Whip
Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY)
(2006-Jan. 2007)
Communications Director
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(Dec. 2003-2006)
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(Dec. 2003-2006)
Deputy Press Secretary
Sen. Phil Gramm (R-TX)
(2000-Nov. 2003)
Sen. Phil Gramm (R-TX)
(2000-Nov. 2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Serves as key coordinator of the GOP message
Spin: Frames the debate for the GOP Conference as key liaison to fourth estate
John
Stipicevic
Floor Director,
House Majority Whip
Gender: Male
Education:
Catholic University of America - Bachelor's (2006)
Employment History (most recent):
Director of Floor Operations
House Republican Whip
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Floor Assistant
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2009-Jan. 2011)
Floor Assistant
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Feb. 2007-Jan. 2009)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Feb. 2007-Jan. 2009)
Staff Assistant
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(May 2006-Jan. 2007)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(May 2006-Jan. 2007)
No Title Listed
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Jan. 2005-April 2005)
House Republican Whip
Sen. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
(Jan. 2005-April 2005)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Relays to leaders exactly how to get to 218 votes on a bill
Access: Understands the mood of the Conference and its members
Steve
Stombres
Chief of Staff,
House Majority Leader
Date of Birth: June 23, 1970
Hometown: Fairfax, Va.
Gender: Male
Education:
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University - BA, history (1993)
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2011-)
House Republican Majority Leader
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(Jan. 2011-)
Chief of Staff
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(April 2009-Jan. 2011)
House Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(April 2009-Jan. 2011)
Chief of Staff
House Chief Deputy Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(2003-2009)
House Chief Deputy Republican Whip
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(2003-2009)
Chief of Staff
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(2001-2009)
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
(2001-2009)
Legislative Director
Rep. Herbert H. Bateman (R-VA)
(1998-Jan. 2001)
Rep. Herbert H. Bateman (R-VA)
(1998-Jan. 2001)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Runs the majority leader's office with military precision and an eye for detail
Influence: Relies on acute intuition to drive the agenda
Access: Has an uniquely close relationship with Cantor
Paul
Teller
Executive Director,
Republican Study Committee
Date of Birth: February 21, 1971
Hometown: Plainview, N.Y.
Gender: Male
Education:
American University - PhD, political science (1993-1999)
Duke University - BA, political science, cum laude (1989-1993)
Employment History (most recent):
Executive Director
House Republican Study Committee
(Feb. 2001-)
House Republican Study Committee
(Feb. 2001-)
Professional Staff Member
House Administration Committee
(March 2000-Feb. 2001)
House Administration Committee
(March 2000-Feb. 2001)
Research Associate
National Center for Public Policy Research
(May 1996-Aug. 1999)
National Center for Public Policy Research
(May 1996-Aug. 1999)
Senior Account Executive
Washington Times
(Aug. 1996-Feb. 1999)
Washington Times
(Aug. 1996-Feb. 1999)
Advertising Director
College Republican National Committee
(May 1994-Aug. 1995)
College Republican National Committee
(May 1994-Aug. 1995)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Mastery: Has depth of policy knowledge after working for seven RSC chairs
Spin: Acts as the canary in the coal mine for what the right wing is feeling
Russ
Thomasson
Chief of Staff,
Senate Minority Whip
Gender: Male
Employment History (most recent):
Chief of Staff
Senate Republican Whip
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(Jan. 2013-)
Senate Republican Whip
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(Jan. 2013-)
Legislative Director
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(2007-Jan. 2013)
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(2007-Jan. 2013)
Legislative Director
Senate Republican Conference Committee Secretary
Sen. Jon Kyl (R-AZ)
(May 2007-Dec. 2008)
Senate Republican Conference Committee Secretary
Sen. Jon Kyl (R-AZ)
(May 2007-Dec. 2008)
Legislative Director
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(2006-May 2007)
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(2006-May 2007)
Legislative Assistant
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(March 2003-2006)
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
(March 2003-2006)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Is a longtime, trusted adviser to Cornyn
Access: Tends to the GOP Conference's needs and attends high-level meetings
Darrel
Thompson
Deputy Chief of Staff for Intergovernmental and External Affairs,
Senate Majority Leader
Date of Birth: June 2, 1970
Gender: Male
Education:
Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government - MPA (2002)
Morgan State University - BA (1992)
Employment History (most recent):
Deputy Chief of Staff for Intergovernmental and External Affairs
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2011-)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(2011-)
Senior Adviser
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Jan. 2006-2011)
Senate Democratic Majority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Jan. 2006-2011)
Senior Adviser
Senate Democratic Minority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Jan. 2005-Jan. 2006)
Senate Democratic Minority Leader
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
(Jan. 2005-Jan. 2006)
Chief of Staff
Barack Obama for Senate
-2004
Barack Obama for Senate
-2004
Senior Policy Adviser/Director of Member Services
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Richard A. Gephardt (D-MO)
(1999-Jan. 2003)
House Democratic Minority Leader
Rep. Richard A. Gephardt (D-MO)
(1999-Jan. 2003)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Smoothes ruffled feathers among outside Democratic constituencies
James
Wallner
Executive Director,
Senate Republican Steering Committee
Hometown: Columbus, Ga.
Gender: Male
Education:
University of Edinburgh (Scotland) - Master's, international and European politics (2005)
University of Georgia - Bachelor's, political science (2003)
Catholic University of America - Attending, doctoral studies in political science
Employment History (most recent):
Executive Director
Senate Republican Steering Committee
Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-PA)
(Aug. 2012-)
Senate Republican Steering Committee
Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-PA)
(Aug. 2012-)
Legislative Director
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL)
(2008-Jan. 2011)
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL)
(2008-Jan. 2011)
Legislative Assistant
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL)
(June 2007-2008)
Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-AL)
(June 2007-2008)
Legislative Assistant
Rep. Terry Everett (R-AL)
(July 2005-June 2007)
Rep. Terry Everett (R-AL)
(July 2005-June 2007)
Legislative Director
Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-PA)
(Jan. 2011-Aug. 2012)
Sen. Patrick J. Toomey (R-PA)
(Jan. 2011-Aug. 2012)
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Advises on ways to promote the conservative message
Kelly
Ward
Executive Director,
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
Hometown: Las Vegas, Nev.
Gender: Female
Education:
Harvard University John F. Kennedy School of Government - MPP (2004-2006)
University of Arizona - Bachelor's, political science, Spanish (1998-2002)
Las Vegas (Nev.) High School (1998)
Employment History (most recent):
Executive Director
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
(Jan. 2013-)
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
(Jan. 2013-)
Political Director
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
Rep. Harry E. Mitchell (D-AZ)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
Rep. Harry E. Mitchell (D-AZ)
(Jan. 2011-Jan. 2013)
Regional Political Director for Incumbent Retention
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
Rep. Harry E. Mitchell (D-AZ)
(Jan. 2010-Jan. 2011)
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee
Rep. Harry E. Mitchell (D-AZ)
(Jan. 2010-Jan. 2011)
Director of America Forward
New Profit Inc.
(Aug. 2007-Aug. 2009)
New Profit Inc.
(Aug. 2007-Aug. 2009)
Campaign Manager
Alan Khazei for U.S. Senate
-2009
Alan Khazei for U.S. Senate
-2009
Bio data provided by LegiStorm.
Influence: Has earned members' trust after three cycles at DCCC
Spin: Has helped frame debate on three cycles of campaigns
