WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Patrick McHenry (NC-10) announced a change to his district staff as former Regional Director J. Brett Keeter has been named District Director.  The change will take effect immediately. 

Keeter will manage McHenry’s three district offices located in Hickory, Gastonia, and Black Mountain.  He will oversee the seven person district staff responsible for assisting 10th District constituents with issues with federal agencies.  Additionally, he will serve as McHenry's main contact to local governments throughout the seven counties that makeup the 10th District.   

Keeter is the longest-tenured member of McHenry's staff having worked in the Congressman's district office since he was first sworn in as a Member of Congress in January of 2005.  Prior to McHenry's election to the US House of Representatives, Keeter served as a Legislative Director during McHenry's time in the NC House of Representatives.   

Keeter is a Gaston County native, having been raised in Mount Holly and graduating from East Gaston High School in 1994.  He graduated from UNC Charlotte in 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and later served as the President of the UNC Charlotte Alumni Association from 2012-2013.  Keeter currently resides in Gastonia with his wife Madeline.      

“Brett has long been a trusted aide ably serving the constituents of the 10th District,” said McHenry.  “I am pleased to announce his promotion as District Director.  Few know North Carolina's 10th Congressional District better than Brett.  I have no doubt he will continue his strong work in this new role.”

Keeter replaces Mark Fleming who served as McHenry's District Director from January of 2008 to March of 2014.  Fleming left to become the President and CEO of Conservatives for Clean Energy.  "Mark has been a trusted aide and great friend," McHenry said.  "I thank him for his years of service to the 10th District and wish him all the best in his new role."