U.S. Rep. John Kline (R-Minn.) today named Jean Hinz as his new chief of staff.

Hinz, a lifelong Minnesotan and graduate of St. Thomas University, has served Congressman Kline as legislative director for nearly four years.

“I have been impressed by Jean’s Minnesota work ethic and common-sense values,” said Kline in a press release. “I look forward to working with her as my new chief of staff.”

Prior to joining Kline’s team, Hinz worked for the Greater Twin Cities United Way. In addition, she worked as a special assistant for Senator Jon Kyl and at the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

“It is a privilege to work for Kline, a man I both admire and respect,” said Hinz, in the release. “We will continue to provide constituents the excellent services they have come to expect and to help Kline represent the views and values of the Second District to the best of our ability.”

Hinz replaces Steven Sutton, Kline’s chief of staff since 2002.

Jeff McNichols has been named Kline’s new legislative director. McNichols has served Kline as a military legislative assistant for nearly three years.

He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1999, and the Naval Postgraduate School in 2000. Prior to joining Kline’s team, McNichols served as a Naval intelligence officer at the Joint Analysis Center in Molesworth, England.

Kline represents Minnesota’s second district, including Chaska.