U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran has named James Kelly of Elkhart, Kansas, as his new chief of staff, replacing Brennen Britton who has accepted a position with Passion City Church in Washington, D.C.
Kelly had worked as the state agriculture representative and district director for Moran in the senator’s Manhattan office.
He started as an intern for Moran in January 2016 and became his correspondence director in March of that year.
Kelly has a bachelor’s in business administration from Fort Hays State University and an associate degree from Garden City Community College.
“James’ thoughtfulness and drive to do right by Kansans will serve him well in his new role as chief of staff,” Moran said in a statement.
“He has traveled to every corner of our home state and knows the priorities, concerns and people of Kansas well,” the senator said.
“His commitment to serving the people back home has been obvious throughout his time in my office, and I look forward to having him at the helm.”
Tom Brandt, Moran’s communications director, will now become deputy chief of staff. He will still oversee communications.
Britton, a graduate of Duke University, had been with Moran since 2012 when he started with the senator as a legislative correspondent.
He rose through the ranks from legislative assistant to state director and ultimately chief of staff in 2017.
“He has been a true friend, trusted leader and tireless public servant to the people of Kansas,” Moran said in statement of Britton.
“I greatly appreciate Brennen’s many years of service, and I have no doubt he has made Kansas a better place.
“I have the utmost admiration for those who make faith a central part of their life, and I know Brennen will continue his work to better the lives of anyone lucky enough to meet him as he answers this new call to service at Passion City Church DC.”
