* From a memo sent to House Republicans this morning…
August 14, 2017
Dear House Republican Member:
I’m pleased to announce that Eleni Demertzis will be joining House Republican staff as my new spokesperson effective Wednesday, August 16. She will be based out of our offices in Chicago.
Some of you may remember Eleni from when she was on House Republican communications staff in 2011 and 2012, but she most recently worked as a Press Secretary for Governor Rauner. Prior to her work in the administration, Eleni served as a Press Secretary for then-U.S. Senator Mark Kirk and as Communications Manager in the Cook County Sheriff’s Office. Eleni’s professionalism and experience working with media from all corners of the state will be an asset to me and to the communications efforts for our entire caucus. I’m excited to have her on board.
Please join me in welcoming Eleni back to House Republican staff.
Sincerely,
Jim Durkin
House Republican Leader
That’s an interesting hire. Demertzis was a fierce Rauner defender who left on her own accord during the infamous staff purge.
- Oswego Willy - Monday, Aug 14, 17 @ 9:41 am:
The most confused person in the House Raunerite Caucus now?
It has to be Rep. Andersson…
- PJ - Monday, Aug 14, 17 @ 10:03 am:
Though I don’t know her personally, I can’t imagine it feels good to slide down the latter like this. Going from press secretary to a Senator, followed by a Governor, followed by a state legislator doesn’t seem like the ideal career path. From one staff member to another, I hope she gets back up. This is a merciless profession.
- hot chocolate - Monday, Aug 14, 17 @ 10:19 am:
Uh PJ she just landed on better than her feet. The Spox job for the Leader is a coveted job and certainly no step down.
- Louis G. Atsaves - Monday, Aug 14, 17 @ 10:27 am:
Sharp, hardworking lady. Glad she landed on her feet somewhere.
- CCSO - Monday, Aug 14, 17 @ 11:41 am:
Worked with Eleni at the Cook County Sheriff’s Office. Louis is right - she’s smart, a pro and works hard. The House is lucky to have her.
- John Gregory (ex-IRN) - Monday, Aug 14, 17 @ 11:43 am:
Always professional and helpful when she was in Kirk’s office. Can’t imagine this helps relations with the new IPI staff in the Gov.’s office, though, when the people who left because of their presence are still in close proximity.