Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) has announced a series of staff changes, marking a new phase in his office’s leadership.
Following a successful tenure as Chief of Staff, Andrea Grace has transitioned to the White House’s Office of Legislative Affairs. In her place, Nate Soule, a longtime aide, has been promoted from Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director to Chief of Staff.
Additionally, James McNamee has assumed the role of Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director. Ciro Riccardi, who previously managed Lawler’s 2024 campaign, has returned as Communications Director and Senior Advisor.
The office’s operations team has also seen changes, with Ava Verzani stepping in as Director of Operations and Scheduler, replacing Ashley Phillips, who departed earlier this year to work for EPA Director Lee Zeldin.
In legislative affairs, Courtney Kaufman has been appointed Senior Policy Advisor, taking charge of Congressman Lawler’s Foreign Affairs portfolio.
On the district level, Rafi Silberberg has shifted from District Director to Senior Advisor. Donna Chiapperino has been promoted to District Director, with Putnam County Legislator Erin Crowley serving as Deputy District Director.