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Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) spoke on the House floor to thank Jon DeWitte, his longtime Chief of Staff, for his friendship and service to West Michigan. Mr. DeWitte has served as Huizenga’s Chief of Staff since January 2011. Announcements regarding staff will be made in the days ahead. Video as well as text of Congressman Huizenga’s remarks are available below. 

Congressman Bill Huizenga

I rise today to say thank you. To say thank you to a Chief of Staff, a colleague, a confident, and a special friend.

Jon DeWitte has been my Chief of Staff for 11.5 years. In fact, when I was elected in 2010, Jon was the first call that I made. He was my first hire and we have been in this journey together the entire time.

Jon has a great track record here in Washington, DC as well. He worked for the Education and Workforce Committee. He then went to work for former Michigan Congressman Dave Camp.

Then when I left the position of District Director for my predecessor Peter Hoekstra, Jon came and filled that position for eight years until I got elected and I asked him to come back to Washington to act as my Chief of Staff.

Well Jon: two redistrictings, majority, minority, government shutdown, impeachments, war, peace, we have seen just about all of it and lived that textbook of political science.

I couldn’t have done it without you and I know you could not have done this without your family.

I want to say a special thank you to Jodi, Nathan, Katie, and Josh for the sacrifices that they made and the sacrifices that you have made. For late nights and early mornings, for travel, for all the things that go into being an excellent Chief of Staff. You have been one my friend.

Now, I know that there are great paths ahead for you and great paths ahead for all of you. But I do know that our friendship will not end.

Team Huizenga is always Team Huizenga and you are a vital part of that.

Once again, Jon, thank you for your service not only to me, but more importantly to the constituents of Michigan’s Second Congressional District and service to your country. A job well done. Thank you.