Speaker of the Arizona House of Representatives Steve Montenegro recently revamped his policy staff team with a mix of new talents and seasoned politicos. A statement released outlined the changes within the House Majority staff, designed to strengthen the strategy and policy forming range ahead of the Second Regular Session of the 57th Legislature. Notable among the updates is the return of Kelsey Jahntz as Director of Policy, a seasoned figure with more than a decade of state government experience, and the appointment of Gina Swoboda as Senior Policy Advisor for the Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections Committee, known for her comprehensive work on election policy.
The appointments come ahead of what is expected to be a busy legislative session. Kelsey Jahntz brings experience from both the Governor’s Office and the Legislature and will be advising key committees and contributing to the state budget process. Gina Swoboda, named Senior Policy Advisor for the Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections Committee, previously served as the State Director of Election Integrity for the Trump Campaign and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Political Psychology.
According to the announcement, Joel Hobbins, having garnered experience as a Research Analyst since his beginning at the House in 2021, has been promoted to Policy Advisor for the Health & Human Services Committee. The report also details the rise of two former interns, Trinity Preest and Noah Brunson-Osborne, who have been promoted to Assistant Policy Advisors in their respective fields after demonstrating a strong work ethic and professionalism.
"Kelsey, Gina, and Joel each bring outstanding knowledge and expertise to our Majority team and are standouts in their fields—I'm proud to have them on board," Montenegro stated in the Arizona House of Representatives press release. The Speaker went on to eagerly welcome Preest and Brunson-Osborne into their permanent roles, commenting on their work ethic and professional distinction garnered during their internship period. "This team makes our Majority stronger, and I'm confident in their ability to help us keep delivering results for the people of Arizona in the months ahead."
