Top 10 House Staffers to Watch in 2025
Power dynamics are shifting in 2025, with new majorities, committee chairs, and leadership roles reshaping the landscape on the Hill. These changes are spotlighting staffers who aren’t just good at their jobs—they’re driving influence and playing pivotal roles in the 119th Congress.
These are the Top 10 House Staffers to Watch in 2025…
Chris Bien is no stranger to leadership offices. He began his career in 2015 with Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, and worked for him through his Speakership tenure. When Mike Johnson became Speaker, Chris got a promotion and joined the Speaker’s team as Floor Director. At a time when Speaker Johnson must consolidate power to advance the Republican agenda, Chris will play a pivotal role. With seven years of preparation for this position, Chris is well-equipped to drive his boss’s priorities forward.
Michaela Kurinsky-Malos has faced a trial by fire even before Rep. Sarah McBride was sworn into office. With significant media attention already on her member, Michaela’s dual role as Communications Director and Deputy Chief of Staff positions her as a key strategist. How she navigates this intense scrutiny while advancing a message focused on constituents will define her success, all while establishing the framework for how the office operates and setting the tone for a growing team.
Zach Barnett faces a new challenge as Communications Director for Lisa McClain, the new leader of the House Republican Conference. After a career spanning both the House and Senate, Zach is poised to lead messaging efforts across the conference. This role is particularly critical as he works to unify and amplify messaging in support of Trump’s agenda. His leadership in this dynamic environment will be closely watched.
Vernon Baker brings extensive experience to his role as Senior Policy Advisor for Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. After a year in the White House, Vernon returned to the Hill in 2024 to help shape strategy for the slim Democratic minority. With his tax policy background, Vernon is well-positioned to drive bipartisan collaboration on one of Congress’s most contentious issues.
Elle Collins will be at the center of critical tax debates in 2025. As Tax Counsel for the Ways and Means Committee’s Tax Subcommittee, she will play a vital role in shaping policy during a pivotal year for tax reform. With D.C. abuzz with possible solutions and updates to tax policy, Elle’s expertise will be instrumental. We’re eager to see her impact as the tax debate unfolds.
Michelle Dorothy on Capitol Spotlight 🎙️
Get to know Michelle Dorothy, Chief of Staff for Rep. Chrissy Houlahan, outside of politics in the newest episode of Capitol Spotlight, a video podcast from CNCT.
Hear Michelle talk about hiking the Himalayas, award-winning office management, and the perks of a year off. Listen or watch!
Ivanley Noisette has a unique opportunity in the 2025 Congress to lead bipartisan initiatives. Rep. Suozzi has emphasized border security and immigration reform as key priorities, seeking Republican partnerships to craft effective legislation. Ivanley’s leadership will be instrumental in advancing these efforts during a Congress where immigration is a central focus of the Trump Administration.
Matt Gurtler enters his fourth year as Chief of Staff for Rep. Thomas Massie. Known for his independence and vocal advocacy for fiscal responsibility, Massie’s office will likely continue to challenge Speaker Mike Johnson on key issues expected to take center stage in 2025. As the leader of this influential team, Matt’s seasoned guidance will be crucial in ensuring their voice is heard in the 2025 Congress.
Jakob Lucas, as Digital Manager for Rep. Greg Casar, will amplify the progressive movement’s voice in the new Congress. Casar’s leadership in the Congressional Progressive Caucus and his focus on working-class issues provide ample opportunities for impactful digital storytelling. Whether opposing Trump’s policies or advocating for progressive reforms, Jakob’s work will be essential to his office’s communications strategy. Maybe Casar and Trump will even find some common ground?
Jamari Hartley, nearing a year in Rep. Mike Lawler’s office, handles agriculture, food, and energy issues—topics expected to dominate conversations in the new Trump Administration. Despite his relative youth, Jamari is positioned to influence significant policy for a key moderate Republican. With Lawler potentially eyeing a gubernatorial run in New York in 2026, Jamari’s role in shaping messaging and policy will be pivotal.
Hadar Arazi has a key role as Rep. Pete Aguilar steps into his new position as Chair of the House Democratic Caucus. Aguilar’s active membership in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and his focus on immigration and border security will place his office in the spotlight. Hadar’s ability to streamline operations and lead with clarity will be critical in supporting Aguilar’s expanded responsibilities in the new Congress.