MCALLEN - Today, Senator Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa announced changes to his staff and the hiring of a new general counsel as he continues to prepare for the 2019 legislation session.

The following staff changes are effective today:

Roxanne DeLaGarza Garcia will serve as Deputy Chief of Staff. Roxanne is currently Legislative Director and has been with Senator Hinojosa's office for almost 8 years. Roxanne previously served as the Committee Director of the Senate Intergovernmental Relations Committee and currently covers transportation, public and higher education, and local government issues. She has an MBA from the University of Texas Pan American and a B.S. in Public Health from Texas A&M University. Roxanne replaces Jennifer Saenz as Deputy Chief of Staff who has left the office to pursue a career in the private sector.

Desiree Castro will serve as Legislative Director. Desiree is currently Senior Policy Advisor and has been with Senator Hinojosa's office for 5 years. Desiree covers criminal justice, border security, windstorm insurance, and business and commerce issues. She earned an MPA and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Prior to working with Senator Hinojosa, Desiree worked for the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce as their Government Affairs Coordinator. She replaces Roxanne who was promoted to Deputy Chief of Staff.

Paul Townsend will serve as General Counsel. Paul is the newest member of Senator Hinojosa's office. He will be covering finance, general budget issues, healthcare, and media/communication issues. He most recently served as Director of Public Policy for the Children's Hospital Association of Texas and was previously Legislative Director and General Counsel for Senator Sylvia Garcia. Paul earned his Juris Doctor degree from St. Mary's University School of Law and his B.A. in English from Louisiana State University.

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