When the new administration wanted a fresh, youthful face to record a five-minute video about the president's energy and environmental agenda, it turned to Zichal, 33. The video has gotten more than 88,000 hits on YouTube. Zichal has spent her career working in Washington, first as a legislative assistant to Rep. Rush Holt, D-N.J., and later for Rep. Frank Pallone, D-N.J. In 2002, Zichal joined the staff of Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., and served as his energy and environmental adviser during his 2004 presidential campaign. She joined Obama's campaign in July 2008, and then worked on his transition team. In the White House, Zichal works closely with climate-change czar Carol Browner and also sits on the auto industry task force. The Iowa native graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in environmental policy.
| Is a Lawyer | |
| Has a PhD | |
| Has Worked in Congress |
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| Has State or Local Experience | |
| Has Lobbied | |
| Has Worked at a Think Tank or in Academia | |
| Has Military Experience | |
| Has Worked as a Business Executive | |
| Has Held Elective Office | |
| Undergraduate Alma Mater | Rutgers |
| Graduate Alma Mater |
Established: 1789
Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20500
Phone: 202-456-1414
Website: www.whitehouse.gov
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