House

Top Scalise aide to leave post

by Megan R. Wilson - 12/10/15 3:15 PM ET

Lynnel Ruckert, chief of staff for House Majority Whip Steve Scalise (La.), is stepping down, the office confirmed to The Hill.

She has been with Scalise since he first came to Congress in 2008, first as the top staffer in his personal office and then as his leadership chief when he became whip in 2014.

“When building a strong team, you need a strong leader. Lynnel has been that strong leader, ally and friend since I arrived in Washington,” Scalise said in a statement.

“Whether it’s been the Whip Team, Republican Study Committee, or Louisiana’s first congressional district, under her guidance, strong leadership and relentless drive, Lynnel played a crucial role in delivering many conservative victories for both our country and Louisiana,” he said.

Taking over the position is Brett Horton, another longtime Scalise aide who currently serves as his floor director.

Scalise, in an announcement regarding the promotion called Horton a “trusted advisor.”

“His counsel and leadership at the helm of our House Floor operation has been instrumental in securing some of our biggest wins this year,” Scalise said. “Brett has the full trust and confidence of myself and the team to lead us to even more success in the future.”

Horton previously served as a policy director and counsel to the Republican Study Committee while Scalice served as its chairman. Before that, he worked as a legislative aide in Scalise’s personal office.

Matt Bravo, Scalise’s deputy floor director, is moving up into Horton’s role. Prior to working with Scalise, Bravo worked as an aide on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and as a staffer to former Rep. Eric Cantor (R-Va.), during his time as both House majority leader and as whip.

Ruckert formerly worked as an aide to Sen. David Vitter (R-La.), when he served in the House, and former Rep. Bobby Jindal (R-La.), now the governor of the state. Her husband, Kyle Ruckert, is now Vitter’s chief of staff. Vitter is retiring at the end of his term.

“I am forever grateful for Lynnel’s dedication and unwavering commitment to our team. Lynnel will be truly missed; I wish her, Kyle, and the whole Ruckert family all the best as they enter this new chapter,” Scalise said.

– This post was updated at 3:25 p.m.

Tags David Vitter Eric Cantor