WASHINGTON, DC-- Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) today announced that he has selected Nilda Pedrosa to serve as his new Chief of Staff.  Pedrosa will serve as Congressman Diaz-Balart’s principal advisor on political, legislative and policy matters and will be responsible for managing his office and staff.

“I am truly pleased that Nilda has agreed to take on this key role as my Chief of Staff,” said Congressman Diaz-Balart.  “Her legislative and policy experience, knowledge of the needs of Floridians, and her many years of public service both in the legislative and executive branches of the federal government made her the natural choice to help lead my office as we move forward in the next Congress.  With Nilda serving as my point person, and together with the rest of my team, I look forward to pursuing a positive and aggressive agenda on behalf of the residents of District 25.”

For the past four years, Pedrosa has served on the staff of United States Senator Mel Martinez, most recently as his Senior Policy Advisor, and previously served as Political Director of Martinez’s successful 2004 Senate campaign.  Martinez said: “Nilda has been an essential part of my team since before I took office.  She’s done a terrific job and I’m grateful for the contributions she has made on behalf of Floridians.  She will be missed, but I can think of no better person to lead my friend Mario’s office, and I wish her the best in this new position.” 

Previously, Pedrosa was appointed by President Bush to serve as Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs under Secretary of State Colin Powell, and she has also served as Director of Public Policy and Governmental Relations for Miami Children’s Hospital.

Pedrosa’s appointment follows the announcement that current Chief of Staff, Thomas Bean will step down to pursue opportunities in the private sector in Florida.  “Thomas has my thanks and appreciation for his hard work and contributions over the past six years,” Congressman Diaz-Balart added.  “He has honored my office with his tireless dedication to the residents of District 25, and I invite them to join me in wishing him the best in his new endeavors.”