WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Greg Walden (R-OR) today announced that Oregon native Angela Wilhelms will join his Washington, D.C. staff as press secretary effective July 9. Wilhelms, a Klamath Falls native and daughter of former Oregon House Minority Leader Gary Wilhelms (R-Klamath Falls), is a lifelong Oregonian with considerable experience in the state’s political arena. Wilhelms will manage media relations for Walden.

"Angela’s public service experience in Oregon will be of great value both to my team and to the people of central, southern and eastern Oregon," said Walden. "She has a deep understanding of the issues of importance to our state and a profound concern for the well-being of her fellow Oregonians. I’m excited to welcome her aboard."

Wilhelms’ recent work experience includes consulting and staff positions with former Oregon Senate Majority Leader David Nelson, former House Majority Leader Tim Knopp, Senator Ben Westlund, Representative Gene Whisnant, and numerous candidates and legislators from the Willamette Valley region, including House Majority Leader Wayne Scott. Wilhelms currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Dorchester Conference, an annual gathering of grassroots activists throughout Oregon, and as a volunteer teacher with the Oregon chapter of Junior Achievement.

Wilhelms will replace departing Walden aide Dallas Boyd, who will begin graduate studies at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University in the fall. Boyd worked in Walden’s Washington, D.C. office for 5 ½ years as press secretary and legislative assistant.

Congressman Walden represents the Second Congressional District of Oregon, which includes 20 counties in southern, central and eastern Oregon. He is a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce as well as the Committee on Resources.

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