House Dem majority welcomes first black female floor director

A veteran House Democratic staffer is set to break racial barriers once the House Democrats take power this week.

Shuwanza Goff will be the first African-American woman to serve as floor director, a low-profile but hugely important position in incoming House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer’s (D-Md.) office.

“It’s a little daunting, but it’s also exciting,” Goff said.

In her current role as director of legislative operations for the minority whip, Goff communicates across the aisle on what legislation can and can’t pass and what Democrats will and won’t accept in bipartisan legislation, such as a bill to end the partial government shutdown.

When Democrats take the majority this week, however, her role will shift from counting votes to managing the floor. She will provide Hoyer with options on what bills will come to the floor, while incoming House Majority Whip James Clyburn’s (D-S.C.) office will make sure the votes are there for passage.

Praise for Goff’s work extends beyond party lines. Matt Bravo, a former floor director for Majority Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.), worked closely alongside Goff for three years, communicating with her almost daily. He considers her a friend.

Floor staff have to “get s--- done,” he said, “and she’s the best.”



https://www.politico.com/story/2019/01/02/steny-hoyer-floor-director-1077180