WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) today announced that Mike Bloomquist has been named Deputy Staff Director for the committee. Bloomquist succeeds Alexa Marrero, a longtime Capitol Hill veteran who is leaving the committee, and the nation’s capital, as she and her husband relocate to Chicago. Bloomquist, who previously served as the committee’s General Counsel, returns from the private sector.
Marrero was one of the first hires for the committee when Upton became chairman in December 2010. First as Communications Director and later as Deputy Staff Director since June 2012, she has been an invaluable and trusted confidante. Upton praised Marrero’s service, saying, “Alexa Marrero is second to none when it comes to intelligence, instinct, integrity, and work ethic. She first cut her chops as part of John Boehner’s top-notch committee staff, and has served the Energy and Commerce Committee with distinction. It is bittersweet to see Alexa go as she has been a trusted adviser, policy expert, and terrific friend since day one of my chairmanship. But we wish her all the best as she and Miguel start a new chapter in the Windy City, and I look forward to sharing an Old Style with her very soon in the bleachers at Wrigley."
Upton named longtime committee and Hill veteran Mike Bloomquist as Deputy Staff Director. He returns to the committee after a stint in the private sector. This marks Bloomquist’s third turn at the committee. He most recently served as General Counsel, and Deputy General Counsel, returning to the Hill when Upton became chairman. During that time Bloomquist took a leave of absence as General Counsel of the Supercommittee, of which Upton was a member. Bloomquist had also served as Energy and Commerce Deputy General Counsel under Chairman Barton and also spent time with the Science Committee.
Upton commented, “As the saying goes, the third time is the charm. I am delighted to welcome Mike back home to the committee. No matter how hard he tries, he just can’t escape his Energy and Commerce roots. Mike’s a pro. He’s seasoned and knowledgeable, and his even demeanor and quick wit are a perfect fit for the committee. We have a lot left to do, including getting #Cures2015, TSCA reform, and the Architecture of Abundance across the finish line. With Gary Andres and Mike leading the way, I have no doubt this Congress will be our most successful yet."
