Chairman John Moolenaar of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has announced senior staff hires for the 119th Congress. In a statement, Moolenaar emphasized the importance of addressing the national security challenges posed by China, stating: “The Chinese Communist Party represents the most complex and significant national security challenge of our time, and it is crucial that we continue to build on the tremendous progress the Committee made in the 118th Congress."

Moolenaar highlighted that since assuming leadership of the Select Committee, significant steps have been taken to address what he described as "the CCP’s malign influence." He expressed confidence in new hires Margaret Harker, Alyssa Pettus, and David Russell, noting their expertise would bolster bipartisan efforts to protect American interests.

Margaret Harker will take on the role of General Counsel for the committee. Her previous experience includes serving as Deputy Chief Counsel for Investigations at the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. She also held positions at the Department of Justice as an Assistant United States Attorney and a Trial Attorney in its Counterintelligence and Export Control Section.

Alyssa Pettus joins as Communications Director. Her background includes various communications leadership roles at Leidos and serving as Press Secretary for Senator Richard Shelby.

David Russell has been promoted from Chairman Moolenaar’s personal office to Senior Advisor for Policy and Communications within the committee staff.

These appointments underscore Chairman Moolenaar's commitment to addressing threats from China. Dave Hanke will remain as Staff Director for the Select Committee.