Jennifer A. Goedke is a seasoned Capitol Hill leader with more than 25 years of experience shaping legislative strategy and navigating complex political environments. Known for her strategic judgment and ability to build durable relationships across the Democratic Caucus and bipartisan alliances, she has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor to members of Congress and a skilled operator in both the policy and political spheres.
Previously, she was chief of staff to Reps. Jared Huffman and George Whitesides, serving as a senior policy advisor and key liaison to House leadership, committees and the White House. In those roles, she led the development and execution of policy priorities, coordinated high-level stakeholder engagement and managed fundraising and campaign strategy.
Jennifer spent more than six years as deputy chief of staff to Rep. Mike Thompson, where she played a central role in policy development. She was instrumental in advancing major legislative initiatives, including gun violence prevention efforts and the bipartisan background check bill (H.R. 8), as well as trade negotiations related to the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Her congressional portfolio also included experience with the Committee on Ways and Means, trade and foreign policy, and domestic business policy.
Additionally, Jennifer held senior roles with representatives from the Congressional Progressive Caucus, the Blue Dog Coalition and New Democrats. In addition to her legislative work, Jennifer was selected for the prestigious Stennis Congressional Staff Fellows Program, reflecting her leadership among senior congressional staff.