Boise, Idaho ~ Boise, Idaho - Governor Brad Little has announced changes within his staff today, including the hiring of a new Director of Operations and a Policy Advisor, as well as the departure of his Deputy Chief of Staff.

Lauren Smyser has been hired as the new Director of Operations in the Office of the Governor. Smyser previously served as Deputy General Counsel for the Governor and has been leading his regulatory reform efforts for nearly two years. In her new role, she will advise Governor Little on healthcare, workforce development, economic security, and insurance. With a background in private practice at a local law firm specializing in healthcare law, Smyser brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new position. She holds a bachelor's degree in history with minors in pre-law, religious studies, and human biology from The College of Idaho. She also earned her juris doctorate from the University of Idaho College of Law with summa cum laude honors.

Governor Little also announced the departure of his Deputy Chief of Staff, Sara Stover. Stover has been with the office for many years and is highly respected for her extensive knowledge on healthcare policy in Idaho. In a statement, Governor Little expressed his gratitude for Stover's service and leadership within the office and state. He also welcomed Smyser into her new role, praising her as a trusted advisor and effective leader with a deep understanding of policy, operations, and state government.

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In addition to Smyser's hiring, Niko Lostra has joined the Office of the Governor as a Policy Advisor. Lostra will be responsible for covering policy areas related to the environment and transportation. Prior to joining the Governor's Office, Lostra spent over six years at Boise-based firm Bilbao & Co., where he represented clients on state and local policy matters. As a lifelong Idahoan with extensive experience in public policy and stakeholder engagement, Lostra is well-equipped to develop solutions that benefit the state.

Lostra's hiring comes as a replacement for Darren Damon, who is taking on the role of Regulatory and Legislative Affairs Bureau Chief in the Governor's budget office, the Division of Financial Management. Damon, who previously worked in journalism and public affairs, has been with the Governor's Office since 2023. He holds a bachelor's degree in broadcast and digital media from the University of Idaho.

Governor Little expressed his appreciation for Damon's service and leadership within the office, stating that he has been a trusted advisor on complex policy and regulatory issues. He also expressed his gratitude for Damon's continued service to the state in his new role. The Governor also welcomed Lostra to the team, highlighting his understanding of public policy, strategic communications, and issues important to Idaho families and businesses. He looks forward to Lostra's contributions in advancing priorities related to transportation, natural resources, permitting, and infrastructure.

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These changes within Governor Little's staff demonstrate his commitment to delivering results for the people of Idaho through experienced and knowledgeable individuals. With Smyser as Director of Operations and Lostra as Policy Advisor, along with Damon's new role as Regulatory and Legislative Affairs Bureau Chief, Governor Little is confident that his team will continue to serve Idahoans effectively.

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