Huffman Announces Departure of Chief of Staff Ben Miller, Names Jennifer A. Goedke as New Chief

November 09, 2020

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael), announced the departure of his longtime Chief of Staff, Ben Miller. Miller has held this role since 2013, when Rep. Huffman was first elected to office. Prior to joining Rep. Huffman’s team, Miller worked for former Congressman George Miller (D-CA), a member of the House Democratic leadership and a former chairman of three House committees. He served in multiple roles on Congressman Miller’s staff, including as Legislative Director for six years. 

“Ben has been an excellent Chief of Staff since I came to Congress eight years ago, and we’ll miss him greatly,” said Rep. Huffman. “His leadership helped build the strong team we have today and drove countless legislative wins for our district.  Ben is widely respected in the Capitol and beyond for his professionalism, collegiality, and deep policy knowledge on issues that matter to California.  I will always be grateful for the leadership, integrity, and stability he brought to our team, and for his contributions to our work to resolve natural resource conflicts, build sustainable infrastructure, and deliver for our constituents.”

“As we say this bitter-sweet goodbye and wish Ben well in his next professional chapter, we are fortunate to have found an exceptionally qualified successor to be my new Chief of Staff:  Jennifer A. Goedke.  Jennifer’s twenty years of legislative experience, her unique connections to our district, and her well-earned reputation as a leader and problem solver will serve our team well going forward,” Huffman concluded. 

Jennifer A. Goedke comes to Rep. Huffman’s office from the office of Rep. Mike Thompson in the neighboring Fifth Congressional District, where she has served the past 6 years as Deputy Chief of Staff.  Her two decades of experience in the Capitol also includes as Deputy Chief of Staff to Rep. Huffman’s predecessor, former Rep. Lynn Woolsey, who represented Marin and Sonoma Counties until her retirement in 2013.  

“I am honored to join Congressman Huffman and his excellent team.  Along with the Congressman and District Director Jenny Callaway, Ben built a staff dedicated to constituent service and superior legislative skill.  Ben’s reputation as a sharp political mind and effective leader precedes him, and his shoes will be very hard to fill,” said Jennifer A. Goedke. “California’s 2nd Congressional District is unmatched, and I look forward to serving Congressman Huffman and the folks that call it home.”

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