Congressman Burchett’s chief of staff departing, announces replacement

U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett’s (TN-02) longtime chief of staff, Michael Grider, will be departing his office at the end of June to go into the private sector. Grider has worked for Rep. Burchett for nearly 14 years, serving as Rep. Burchett’s communications director in the Knox County Mayor’s office, and later as his chief of staff in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Effective July 1, Rep. Burchett’s new chief of staff will be Jennifer Linginfelter, who has worked for Congressman Burchett for 12 years, beginning when he was mayor of Knox County.

“Michael will always be close to my girls and me. He has become and will always remain one of my best friends. I am excited for him in his new venture. I have total confidence in Jennifer in her new role and I look forward to what we will accomplish.” said Rep. Burchett.

“Working with Congressman Burchett has been the honor of a lifetime, and I will forever be thankful for the experience he afforded me, and, more importantly, for his friendship,” said Grider. “I am so proud of all that we accomplished over the years, and of the outstanding team members I’ve had the opportunity to work with over the years in service to the constituents of Tennessee’s Second District. While it is hard to leave, I know I’m leaving the office in great hands with Jennifer, who will do an amazing job as Congressman Burchett’s next chief of staff.”

“Over the last 5 years, I’ve had the privilege of overseeing the Congressman’s district operations here in East Tennessee. Our successes in the district – and in DC – are in no small part thanks to Michael’s leadership. Our office wishes him all the best. We hate to see him go but are so happy to see where this next chapter takes him,” said Linginfelter. “I’m grateful for the Congressman’s confidence in me and am humbled by this new opportunity. It’s truly an honor to serve Tennessee’s Second Congressional District and its constituents.”