East Idaho Times

WASHINGTON—Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson today announced the hiring of four new staff members and recent promotions in his D.C. and District offices.

Penny Stehlik has joined the Simpson office as Senior Legislative Assistant. She previously worked as a Military Legislative Assistant for Congressman John Carter, Chairman of the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations Committee. Penny graduated from Howard Payne University with a bachelor’s degree in global studies and public policy. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in defense and strategic studies from the Naval War College.

Lauren Radford has joined the Simpson office as Scheduler. She previously worked as Operations Manager for Congressman Chuck Edwards. Lauren graduated from Campbell University in May 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in business administration.

Eric Morris has joined the Simpson office as Legislative Correspondent. He previously interned in Rep. Simpson's office in 2023 and served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Paraguay from 2023 to 2024. Eric also interned at the Executive Office of the President of the United States and holds a bachelor's degree from Idaho State University.

Sydney O’Connor has joined the Simpson office as a Field Representative and Caseworker in the Boise District Office. She previously interned in Rep. Simpson’s office in spring 2024. Sydney graduated from Boise State University in 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in history and political science, along with a certificate in human rights.

Reilly Lamp has been promoted to Legislative Director, adding policy areas to his previous role. Reilly joined the Simpson staff in October 2022 after working as a Senior Legislative Assistant for Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA). He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Utah State University.

Clay Thatcher has been promoted to Legislative Assistant, also adding policy areas to his previous role. Clay graduated from Gonzaga University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in business concentrating on law and public policy, alongside an English minor. During his time at Gonzaga, Clay competed as a Division I athlete for the men’s golf team. He previously interned for both the Subcommittee on Communications & Technology on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers' office.

“Team Simpson has always worked hard to represent Idahoans well,” said Rep. Simpson. “I’m very proud of my staff, and I’m confident our new hires and promotions will succeed in their new roles as we continue to work for the people of Idaho’s Second District.”