Pelosi Chief Of Staff Announced: Nadeam Elshami To Replace John Lawrence
Democratic House Leader Nancy Pelosi‘s new chief of staff will be Nadeam Elshami, replacing John Lawrence who is retiring after 38 years.
After eight years as Pelosi’s chief of staff, Lawrence will retire on February 1, 2013, reports Politico.
“On behalf of my colleagues, I want to thank John Lawrence for his 38 years of service to the House of Representatives,” Pelosi said of Lawrence’s service.
“Few staff members have ever had the impact that John has had on so many laws that have been enacted in his years in my office as speaker and as democratic leader, and with Chairman George Miller. I wish John and Deborah well and will always value their friendship.”
Replacing Lawrence is Nadeam Elshami, who currently serves as the communications director for Pelosi. He served in the past as a deputy communications director for Senator Dick Durbin and as deputy chief of staff and communications for congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, reports WebProNews.
He started in the Senate mailroom, and moved up to deputy press secretary for Senator Barbara Boxer.
“For the past six years, Nadeam has been a key communications strategist, spokesperson and senior advisor,” Pelosi said of Elshami’s promotion. “I know my colleagues in the House Democratic Caucus will benefit from his leadership as he transitions to Chief of Staff.”
Lawrence, 63, started his political career as a staffer in the mid-1970s. He has played a key role in enacting laws on a number of progressive issues like energy, education reform, and worker’s rights.
“I would certainly say overall that the high point was getting to be the chief of staff to the speaker of the House,” Lawrence said, reflecting on his career.
“In this position, you just get a perspective on much more of what it takes to both run the institution and to accomplish really big goals … I am very grateful to [Pelosi] for giving me that chance. I am grateful to our staff and everybody who worked together to get this stuff done.”
