Rep Jeff Leach Announces Key Staff for the 87th Legislative Session

December 14, 2020

ALLEN — Today, State Representative Jeff Leach announced changes in his staff for the 87th Legislative Session, including the departure of longtime staff member Mary McClure, who has served in key roles in Representative Leach’s office since he was first elected in 2012. Taking over for Mary McClure as Communications & District Director will be Julie Atkinson, who previously served as Deputy District Director and as Campaign Manager for Representative Leach’s successful re-election bid in 2020. Lauren Young will continue to serve as Chief of Staff and Cassidy Zgabay, previously the Chief Clerk of the House Committee on Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence, Chaired by Representative Leach, will assume the role of Policy Advisor and Legislative Director.

Regarding Mary McClure’s resignation, Representative Leach said, “From day one, Mary McClure has been my closest advisor and the true leader of our team, both at home and in the Capitol. Previously, as my Chief of Staff, and most recently as my District Director, Mary has ably and passionately served me and my office and the citizens of House District 67. While she is officially departing our office to focus on higher, better priorities – namely, her amazing family – she will always have a place on our team and I will no doubt continue to rely on her valued input, feedback and friendship.”

Regarding the appointment of Julie Atkinson as Communications and District Director, Representative Leach stated, “Julie Atkinson is the clear and perfect choice to take over as Communications and District Director. After serving as Deputy District Director and then managing and leading our tremendously successful re-election campaign, Julie has a strong grasp on the crucial issues facing our constituents, including the immense challenges and opportunties on the horizon in the 87th Legislative Session. She is a trusted advisor, a strong leader and a committed servant who will help me to ensure the voices of the people are heard loud and clear in their Texas House.”

“I am also excited to announce that Lauren Young, my top policy advisor and one of the brightest minds in the Texas Capitol, will continue to serve as my Chief of Staff, and that Cassidy Zgabay, an extremely skilled and gifted legislative advisor, will transition to the role of Legislative Director. All of us, together, are committed to ensuring the 87th Legislative Session is successful in ensuring a strong and vibrant Lone Star State, not just for the Texans of today, but for the future Texans of tomorrow.”