Assistant Secretary Julie McClain Downey
Julie McClain Downey (she/her) is a political communications strategist who has worked on campaigns, for elected officials, and at progressive organizations. She began as Assistant Secretary of Labor for Public Affairs on February 27, 2023.
Most recently, she was Vice President of Strategic Communications at American Bridge 21st Century, where she oversaw communications, digital, and creative strategy for the 2022 cycle. Previously, she served as the Senior Director of Advocacy Communications for Planned Parenthood Federation of America and Planned Parenthood Action Fund, Director of State Communications for Cory Booker's presidential campaign, and Senior Director of Campaign Communications at EMILY's List.
She has also held a variety of other political positions, some of which include New Hampshire Communications Director for Hillary Clinton's presidential campaign, communications director for the New Hampshire Democratic Party, press secretary to Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI), and deputy press secretary for Shelley Berkley's senatorial bid in Nevada.
Julie is from North Caldwell, NJ and attended the University of Pennsylvania. She and her husband live in Maryland with their two daughters.