SC Oklahoma News

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) has announced several changes and promotions to his D.C. legislative staff. The changes include the departure of Shane Hand, who will be taking on a new role at America's Health Insurance Plans, and the promotion of Sofia Deiro and Lauren Ketchum to new positions.

Shane Hand, who has been serving as Cole's Legislative Director since December 2021, will be starting a new position as the Vice President of Federal Affairs at America's Health Insurance Plans. Hand has been a valuable member of the team, having previously served as Cole's Senior Policy Advisor on Health and Legislative Assistant handling various issues. Cole expressed his appreciation for Hand's contributions, stating, "Shane’s success throughout the last five years working in my office cannot be overstated enough. He has been an exceptional leader to the entire legislative team and an integral advisor to me on health and education issues."

Sofia Deiro, who has been working in Cole's D.C. office since 2020, will be promoted from Legislative Assistant to Legislative Director. Deiro has specialized in Tribal issues and Cole commended her for her dedication, saying, "I am proud to congratulate Sofia on her well-deserved promotion. She has shown tremendous professional growth in just a few short years and has been passionate about the issues within her portfolio."

Lauren Ketchum, who previously interned in Cole's D.C. office in 2022 and later joined as a permanent staff member in 2023, will also be promoted to the position of Legislative Assistant. Cole praised Ketchum's performance as a Legislative Correspondent and expressed confidence in her ability to take on additional responsibilities.

In addition to these changes, Congressman Cole will be welcoming Lieutenant Commander John Peach to his team as a Defense Fellow as part of the Department of Defense Legislative Fellow Program. Peach, a Yuma, Arizona native, is currently earning his commission through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps program. Cole expressed his excitement about Peach's appointment, stating, "I am proud to represent roughly 1300 sailors serving at the Fourth District’s Tinker Air Force Base through the TACAMO mission, and I look forward to the unique perspective John will bring."

The remaining members of Cole's legislative staff will continue in their current roles. Adam Sullivan will serve as Senior Policy Advisor, Will McPherson will serve as State Policy Advisor, and Zach Kensinger will continue as Legislative Assistant.

These changes and promotions reflect Congressman Cole's commitment to assembling a strong and dedicated team to serve the constituents of Oklahoma's Fourth District.