We proudly present the 12th part of our 21-part series, better know a Chief of Staff. Today we present Patrick Rothwell, COS for Freshman Rep. Lou Barletta.

Background

What’s your name?

Patrick Rothwell

Who is your boss?

Lou Barletta

What is your birthday?

August 27

Where did you grow up?

Born in Harrisburg, grew up in Massachusetts

Where did you go to college and what was your major?

Hobart College, Political Science

Are you married? Dating? Single?

Married

Do you have any kids? If so, how old and what are their names?

10 month old twin daughters, Jane and Charlotte

Professional

What was your first political job?

Internship for Sen. Mitch McConnell

What was your biggest break in politics?

Landing my first full time job (Legislative Correspondent for Rep. Charlie Norwood)

How long have you worked with your boss?

8 months

What was your position when you first started in the office?

Chief of Staff

What’s the funniest thing your member has ever asked you to do?

It’s still early….

Personal

What was your most embarrassing moment on Capitol Hill?

As an intern, I was unaware that some of the seats on the Senate Subway were reserved for Senators and I basically took Senator Ted Kennedy’s seat (who was forced to find another seat). After the fact, the train operator kindly informed me of my error.

What is your favorite PA sports team?

Phillies

Restaurant you’d recommend from back in the district?

Top of the 80’s

Favorite quote?

Don’t sweat the small stuff.

How many smartphones do you carry?

2

What current political figure do you most admire (excluding your boss), and a sentence or two why?

Rep. Pete King (NY). He represents his constituents well, regardless of party affiliation; he isn’t afraid to take on sensitive issues as the Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee; and he’s a nice guy who can dish it out as well as take it (see his appearances on Imus).

What advice would you give to the aspiring Chiefs of Staff out there?

I really haven’t been a Chief of Staff long enough to start doling out advice.