Tester names Montana native as new Chief of Staff

Tom Lopach will serve as Senator’s top aide

(BIG SANDY, Mont.) – Senator Jon Tester today named Montana native Tom Lopach as his new chief of staff.

“Tom is a Montanan who brings a great deal of experience and know-how to my office, and he’s a dedicated public servant who knows and understands our state and the challenges we face,” Tester said.  “Tom’s a smart guy with an impressive record of working hard in the Senate and in Montana.”

As Tester’s top aide, Lopach will oversee Tester’s staff of 42 in Montana and in Washington, D.C.

Lopach grew up in Helena.  He began his career working as a Helena field representative for U.S. Congressman Pat Williams, shortly after earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Gonzaga University.

Lopach has more than a decade of experience working on Capitol Hill, serving as a key adviser in a variety of roles.

Lopach most recently worked as Senior Vice President for Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs at the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the nation’s official export credit agency.

“It’s an honor to be back serving fellow Montanans again,” Lopach said.  “Jon Tester is a genuine voice and a strong, one-of-a-kind leader for Montana’s families, veterans, small businesses and family farms and ranches.  I look forward to working with him on behalf of all Montanans to create jobs and new opportunities in our state for years to come.”

Lopach will replace outgoing Chief of Staff Stephanie Schriock.  Schriock will begin serving as president of the campaign organization EMILY’s List on February 1.