Rep. Jan Schakowsky's (D-Ill.) search for a new staffer this month has led her down J Street.
Schakowsky hired former J Street lobbyist Shannon Kellman to be her legislative assistant. Kellman had been working for J Street since late last year. During her time at the self-described "pro-Israel pro-peace" group, she lobbied Congress on issues relating to the Iran nuclear deal, boycott and divestment movement against Israel and American aid to Israel and Palestine. J Street has recently come out in favor of the Iran deal while their less reconciliatory counterpart, AIPAC, has been staunchly opposed.
Kellman joined J Street after leaving the office of Sen. Carl Levin (D-Mich.) shortly before his retirement in January 2015. She had been with Levin since 2013, first working as a staff assistant and then as a legislative correspondent. Kellman had also previously served as an intern for the House Democratic Caucus in 2006.
Schakowsky has received support from J Street in recent years and even caused a minor fracas in March when she addressed a conference hosted by the firm. She was criticized for remarks that some commenters interpreted as negative towards Orthodox Jews. Both she and Levin have come out in support of the Iran deal.
