From Service to Strategy: A Legislative Path on the Hill
This week, we spoke to Jack Muller, Legislative Assistant for the Office of Representative Juan Ciscomani.
Can you walk us through your career path and the steps that led you to your current role as a Legislative Assistant?
What began as intimidation from a respected uncle who served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War ultimately became a defining lesson in personal growth. As I matured, I came to understand that achieving greatness requires deliberately stepping into discomfort and confronting the very challenges that test you most. Rather than avoiding what intimidated me, I recognized that facing it head-on was necessary to build confidence, discipline, and resilience. That realization led me to enlist in the Marine Corps, choosing to face that fear directly and grow through the experience.
During my service, I discovered a deeper calling to serve both God and country, which shaped my long-term goal of pursuing public service through elected office, with the long-term goal of seeking the presidency. After returning to the University of Tennessee, I focused on building a path to Capitol Hill, securing internships and, shortly after completing my master’s degree, earning a full-time role. Within two months of my second internship, I was hired as a Staff Assistant, later promoted to Legislative Assistant with a focus on defense and veterans’ policy. I recently transitioned to a new office as a Legislative Assistant, where I expanded my portfolio and now serve as the primary policy advisor to Juan Ciscomani in his role on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.
Which policy areas or legislative issues are you most passionate about and how do you stay informed and engaged in those specific areas?
I am most passionate about three core policy areas: defense, space and emerging technology, and financial policy—each of which is essential to maintaining American strength and leadership.
First, I am deeply committed to defense policy and ensuring the United States maintains the most capable and elite military in the world. A strong military is the foundation of national security and deterrence, especially as we face challenges from countries like China and Russia. My background in the United States Marine Corps and my current work on defense and veterans’ issues reinforce the importance of readiness, modernization, and support for servicemembers.
Closely tied to this is my interest in space and technology policy. I view space as the next critical domain of competition and opportunity. As other nations expand their capabilities, it is vital that the United States leads in space to ensure our security and unlock future economic and technological potential.
I am also passionate about financial policy because economic strength underpins every aspect of national power. A fiscally sound nation is better equipped to invest in defense, innovation, and opportunity.
To stay informed, I rely on my work on Capitol Hill, engagement with experts and stakeholders, and ongoing review of legislative developments, particularly in the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee. I always attend briefings and take notes even when my boss is not present.
Describe a challenging or rewarding project that significantly influenced your growth as a professional. How did you handle the challenge and how did it shape your approach to legislative work?
One of the most rewarding and formative experiences in my professional development has been working on major veterans’ legislation, particularly helping advance H.R. 1458, the VETS Opportunity Act, through the House. I had the opportunity to assist in shaping the bill, drafting remarks for House floor debate, and supporting the broader legislative strategy that ultimately led to its passage. Being directly involved in both the policy development and the communication of that policy on the House floor was a significant responsibility, and it required a high level of precision, coordination, and understanding of both substance and messaging. Seeing the bill pass was especially meaningful, as it reinforced the tangible impact that thoughtful legislative work can have on improving opportunities for veterans.
Another challenging yet equally rewarding experience was working closely with committee staff to develop H.R. 8043, the VETS CLEAR Act. This effort required extensive collaboration, careful policy design, and sustained engagement with stakeholders to ensure the bill effectively addressed gaps in veterans’ healthcare. From drafting and refining the legislative language to supporting its introduction and building momentum for support, the process demanded both attention to detail and strategic outreach. It was particularly rewarding to help move the bill from concept to introduction while gaining traction among Members.
What’s one piece of advice you would offer to those hoping to succeed as a legislative staffer on Capitol Hill?
One of the most valuable things you can do to succeed as a legislative staffer is invest intentionally in your ability to communicate and build relationships. Public speaking, socializing, and forming genuine connections are not optional skills in this environment—they are essential. Early in your career, it can feel uncomfortable to strike up conversations or “slow talk” with people you don’t know, but that discomfort is exactly where growth happens. The more you practice engaging with others, the more natural and confident you will become, and that confidence will open doors faster than almost anything else.
Do not hesitate to reach out to more senior staffers and ask to grab coffee or seek advice. Cold-emailing people is very common on the Hill. Capitol Hill has a strong culture of paying it forward, and most people are willing to help those who show initiative and respect for their time. These conversations not only expand your network but also sharpen your understanding of how the institution works. Over time, consistently building relationships and refining your communication skills will give you the confidence needed to effectively engage with Members of Congress and stakeholders alike—and that confidence is a defining factor in long-term success.
What do you believe sets Capitol Hill apart as a unique work environment, and how do you navigate its challenges in your everyday work?
Capitol Hill is a uniquely consequential work environment because the decisions made within it directly shape the lives of the American people. Unlike many other professional settings, the work is not abstract—every policy, vote, and legislative effort has a real and immediate impact on communities across the country. That level of responsibility is extraordinarily motivating, as it reinforces that the work we do each day contributes to improving the quality of life for millions of Americans.
Navigating this environment requires discipline, humility, and a commitment to constant growth. I approach my work with the understanding that there is no room for shortcuts—every detail matters, and every decision must be grounded in thorough preparation and sound judgment. I make it a priority to continually expand my knowledge, refine my understanding of policy, and work harder each day to meet the demands of the role.
Success on Capitol Hill also requires a strong sense of self-belief. It is an environment where expectations are high and the pace is demanding, and it can be easy for individuals to question whether they belong. I have learned that confidence is critical—you are there because you have earned the opportunity to serve, and that responsibility should be met with focus and determination. My faith in Jesus Christ plays a central role in how I navigate challenges. It grounds me, reinforces a sense of purpose, and continually pushes me to grow, lead, and serve others to the best of my ability. Together, this mindset—combining discipline, confidence, and purpose—allows me to operate effectively in a high-stakes environment and contribute meaningfully to the legislative process.
Word association, what is the first word that comes to mind for each of these?
Policy – Influence
Networking – Relationships
Writing Skills – Execution
Working on the Hill – Mission
Leadership Connect – Support
