Pelosi names gay adviser on energy and technology issues

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) on Friday announced that she named a gay Hill staffer to become her policy adviser for energy and technology issues.

Kenneth DeGraff, who most recently served as Rep. Mike Doyle’s (D-Pa.) legislative director, is slated to begin his duties with Pelosi on April 18.

In a statement, Pelosi said DeGraff has been a valuable asset for Doyle and his work on the House Energy & Commerce Committee in promoting universal broadband access, preserving open Internet and ensuring our energy security.

“He now brings his impressive experience to my office and will continue working with the technology industry to promote American innovation and create jobs,” she said. “Very few sectors hold more potential for creating the kind of middle-class jobs that can support a family than energy and technology, and I am very pleased that Kenneth will be handling those issues.”

According to Pelosi’s office, DeGraff also previously served as a legislative assistant to Doyle and as policy analyst at Consumers Union.

DeGraff received a B.A. in political science and communications studies from Butler University in Indiana. He also received a Harry S. Truman Scholarship, which is given to students pursuing a career in public service.