WASHINGTON (December 4, 2025) – Holland & Knight continues to grow its leading Public Policy & Regulation Group with the addition of Christopher M. Jaarda as a partner in Washington, D.C. Mr. Jaarda joins the Firm from the Office of the Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, where he served as senior policy advisor and counsel. At Holland & Knight he will focus on advising clients on their legislative strategy and advocacy efforts, especially in the areas of technology, data privacy, telecommunications and consumer protection.
"As the top policy advisor in Speaker Johnson's office, Chris brings exceptional Capitol Hill experience and deep relationships with congressional leadership in both houses, as well as with the Trump Administration," said Chris DeLacy, co-leader of Holland & Knight's Federal Government Affairs Practice. "Having recently worked on the 2025 budget reconciliation, Chris brings incredible knowledge of the process, key issues and decision makers as we head into 2026."
In his role with Speaker Johnson, Mr. Jaarda advised on issues, including privacy, information technology, homeland security, foreign intelligence, economic policy, supply chain and production issues, and innovation. He successfully shepherded more than 100 bills through the legislative process, including the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America Act (Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act extension) and multiple continuing resolutions. He also led legislative and oversight strategies across several committees, including Energy and Commerce, Oversight and Reform, Judiciary and Homeland Security.
Prior to his work with Speaker Johnson, Mr. Jaarda served as deputy chief of staff and legislative director to Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), now chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. His extensive Capitol Hill experience also includes positions as counsel to Rep. Ken Buck (R-Colo.), chief counsel to the Senate Republican Policy Committee and legislative counsel to Sen. John Ensign (R-Nev.).
"Holland & Knight has an outstanding reputation for its government relations practice, and I'm thrilled to join this talented team," said Mr. Jaarda. "The rules of Washington are changing, and legislative strategies need to change as well. I'm excited to leverage my recent experience working at the highest levels of Congress to help corporate and institutional clients adapt to this new environment and shape future policy."
Beyond his government service, Mr. Jaarda founded Market Street Consultants, a government affairs firm, and also served as chief legal officer for a specialized technology company in Southern California.
Mr. Jaarda earned a J.D. degree from Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law and a B.A. degree from Furman University. He is admitted to practice law in Michigan.
Further Comments on Mr. Jaarda
"Chris has been a trusted advisor whose humility, expertise and nearly 15 years of service on Capitol Hill have meaningfully advanced the work and priorities of the Speaker's office and the Republican Conference. He has a wealth of policy knowledge from his experience in both chambers and a deep understanding of the legislative process that has bolstered our efforts in countless ways. I am profoundly grateful for his service, and I am confident that his extraordinary talent will continue to benefit any team fortunate enough to have him."
Mike Johnson, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
"Chris is a trusted advisor and good friend whose insight, judgment and exemplary career make him exceptionally qualified to guide the legislative process and achieve significant policy wins. He consistently demonstrated the highest standards of professionalism, and he was an invaluable asset to my team as legislative director and later deputy chief of staff, helping secure critically important wins for the Lone Star State. His deep subject matter expertise and strategic leadership make him an invaluable asset to any team."
Sen. Ted Cruz, Chairman, Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation
"Chris Jaarda is one of the finest policy minds on Capitol Hill, with deep knowledge of both House and Senate procedure, as well as a thorough understanding of the policies and political dynamics at play. He brings a strong work ethic, sharp mind, and great attitude to each project."
Darin Miller, Chief of Staff for Sen. Cynthia Lummis