Since the start of her professional career, Kate Smiley has worked in the government sector at every level in capacities ranging from lobbying to campaigning to working in the federal and state legislature.
Kate began her career representing federal services contractors for a large trade association, a role in which she both led political action committee fundraising and directly lobbied members of Congress on complex defense and intelligence matters. She later expanded her issue portfolio as a legislative aide on Capitol Hill, focusing on healthcare, education, and veterans’ issues.
Most recently, Kate served as Chief of Staff to House Democratic Caucus Chairman Richard C. “Rip” Sullivan, Jr. (VA-48). She also managed his campaign activities, including fundraising and communications during his time as Campaign Chair in 2019 when Democrats flipped the Virginia House of Delegates and the Senate.
In her free time, Kate enjoys being active in local politics, volunteering for area non-profits, and baking. She previously practiced Muay Thai and earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Kate graduated from Georgetown University in 2011 and is a native of Conshohocken, Pennsylvania.