Inside the New Team Steering Arizona’s Republican Majority

A new leadership team is stepping into the spotlight at the Arizona State Capitol, as House Speaker Steve Montenegro announces a slate of key promotions and appointments that he says will help steer the Republican Majority through a pivotal legislative season.

The changes elevate seasoned policy strategist Kelsey Jahntz and bring in two experienced legal minds — Robyn Poole and Daniel Tilleman — forming what Montenegro calls one of the “most capable and effective teams ever assembled” under his leadership.

In a politically competitive state watched closely on the national stage, the Speaker’s moves signal a sharper focus on policy execution, legal preparedness, and conservative governance as Republicans gear up for the battles ahead.

A Strategist at the Helm of Policy

At the center of the leadership refresh is Kelsey Jahntz, who moves from Director of Policy to Deputy Chief of Staff.

Her influence has been felt across Arizona’s government for more than a decade. From legislative roles to key positions in the Governor’s Office to private consulting, Jahntz has helped chart policy in areas like education, the workforce, and state budgets. Her work has consistently emphasized conservative principles of stewardship and efficiency.

This promotion places her directly beside Montenegro in shaping the GOP’s agenda, ensuring continuity in strategy and execution. For a majority navigating complex policy debates, Jahntz’s expertise offers stability — and a clear sense of direction.

A Legal Anchor With Wide-Ranging Experience

Joining the team as General Counsel is Robyn Poole, whose background spans nearly every corner of Arizona government.

Her years at the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, the Corporation Commission, the City of Phoenix, and the Arizona Court of Appeals give her a panoramic view of the legal landscape surrounding state governance.

Poole will take the lead on legal matters for the Speaker and caucus members, oversee investigations, coordinate with outside counsel, and review legislation for constitutional and statutory compliance.

As state-level legal disputes increasingly mirror national political tensions, Poole’s role becomes central not just to the smooth operation of the House, but to the legal durability of Arizona’s conservative priorities.

Adding Depth to the GOP’s Legal Bench

Daniel Tilleman steps in as Deputy General Counsel, strengthening the Majority’s capabilities with specialized experience in appellate, constitutional, and commercial law.

Coming from Holtzman Vogel — a firm known for its work on political and constitutional issues — and bringing clerkship experience from the Arizona Supreme Court, Tilleman represents the next generation of legal leadership within the caucus.

He will support legal analysis across the board and staff the Committee on Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections, a committee at the center of high-profile issues ranging from election administration to state-federal authority.

His addition signals Montenegro’s investment in a deep, rigorous legal infrastructure as Republicans prepare to defend Arizona law and advance long-term policy goals.

Montenegro’s Vision: A Cohesive, Battle-Ready Majority

Announcing the appointments, Speaker Montenegro emphasized not just the credentials of each leader, but their value as a cohesive unit:

“Kelsey, Robyn, and Daniel bring proven skill and sound judgment to our Majority team,” he said. “Together, they make our staff one of the most capable and effective teams ever assembled at the State Capitol.”

The new lineup reflects a clear strategy: build a staff that blends institutional knowledge, legal strength, and policy discipline — and position the Republican Majority to navigate the complex political terrain of a state that has become a national bellwether.

As Arizona continues to draw national attention, this team will play a critical role in shaping the GOP’s direction, defending its priorities, and steering the majority through the high-stakes debates to come.