WASHINGTON – Congressman Connie Mack (FL-14) today announced that his chief of staff, Francis Gibbs, is stepping down from his post to pursue opportunities in the private sector. Mack named Hans Klingler, a veteran of several campaigns and congressional and state legislative offices, as his new chief of staff.
Gibbs has served as Mack’s chief of staff and campaign manager since June 2009, and before that, as Mack’s legislative director. Prior to working for Mack, Gibbs, a native of Fernandina Beach, Fla., was legislative counsel for U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw (R-FL).
“Francis has been a most-trusted advisor and close friend for many years, and I will truly miss having him by my side every day,” Mack said in his announcement. “Not only am I losing a terrific staffer and tireless advocate for Southwest Florida, but the entire Congress will be losing a great public servant whose strong principled ideas on freedom and free markets are unmatched. I’m sad to see him go, but I know that I can count on Francis’ advice and friendship for years to come.”
Klingler most recently served as senior staffer for U.S. Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison’s bid for governor of Texas. Prior to joining the Hutchison campaign, Klingler served as director of Communications and Political Operations for the Republican Party of Texas. In this capacity, he served as the chief political strategist for one of the largest state GOP operations in the nation and also as its state and national spokesman.
Klingler has several years of congressional and legislative experience as a senior staffer in the United States Senate, Texas Legislature and as a governmental affairs consultant. He has a bachelor of arts in political science from Texas Tech University.
“I’m pleased to welcome Hans Klingler to my office,” Mack said. “His diverse experience in both the public and private sector will be a valuable asset to this office and the people of Southwest Florida. He will hit the ground running and I’m looking forward to having him be a part of the team.”