Montana News

Daines announces more staff additions

Posted: Dec 26, 2012 3:17 PM by MTN News

WASHINGTON, DC - Montana Congressman-elect Steve Daines has announced the hiring of two additional key staff members.

Darin Thacker joins Daines' Washington, D.C. office as legislative director, bringing nearly a decade of legislative and federal policy experience to Daines' office. He most recently serving as legislative director and defense policy advisor for retiring Congressman Wally Herger, the outgoing Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health.

Zach Lahn, campaign manager for Daines' 2012 congressional campaign, will serve as Daines' state director in Helena. A graduate of University of Colorado - Boulder, Lahn previously helped manage the transition for newly elected Colorado Congressman Cory Gardner.

"We are building a team that has the experience needed to effectively advocate for the people of Montana and bring real change to Washington," Daines said. "Darin and Zach will bring valuable experience and fresh ideas to our office and will be instrumental in ensuring that Montanans' voices are heard."

Last week, Daines also announced the hiring of Chester-native Jason Thielman as chief-of-staff and Froid-native Alee Lockman as communications director. Daines plans to announce subsequent hires in coming weeks.

Daines was recently selected to serve on the House Committees on Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure, and Homeland Security. Elected as Montana's Congressman on Nov. 6, Daines will be sworn into office on Jan. 3.