Washington, DC -- AIDS Action announced today that James P. Fox, chief of staff to Senator Robert Torricelli (D-NJ) and executive director of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), will take the helm as the organization's next executive director in the fall.

Fox, named by Roll Call as one of Capitol Hill's most influential staffers, plans to lead an aggressive policy agenda of reinvigorated HIV prevention, assured medical privacy, and a dynamic response to the changing face of the epidemic both in the U.S. and across the globe.

"I have long been haunted by the nation's forgotten populations affected by HIV and AIDS," said Fox, who has spent twenty years working on behalf of New Jersey's and the nation's most vulnerable men, women and children. "This is a unique and special opportunity to make a difference for those who have been left behind in the fight against HIV and AIDS."

Fox, who has taken a leave of absence from his role as Torricelli's chief of staff to serve at the DSCC, has been Torricelli's top aide since 1994. Prior to Torricelli's election to the Senate, Fox served as his chief of staff in the House of Representatives from 1994 to 1996 and served as Torricelli's district director from 1983 to 1987. He has served on AIDS Action's Foundation Board for the last two years.

"Rather than losing Jamie, I'm gaining his expertise as an advocate for all of us concerned about the continuing dangers of the epidemic," said Torricelli. "Jamie will bring to AIDS Action unprecedented levels of leadership, one of our most powerful weapons in the war on AIDS."

With the exception of a one-year stint as Senator Frank Lautenberg's (D-NJ) state director, Fox also spent six years in the New Jersey State House, including service as deputy chief of staff to Governor James Florio (D-NJ).

In addition to his inclusion on Roll Call's "Fabulous Fifty" top Hill staffers list, the Capitol Hill weekly also listed Fox as a "Staffer to Watch." He has also been the subject of profiles in National Journal and Campaigns and Elections.

"Jamie's years of experience and political skills will give millions of Americans affected by HIV and AIDS extraordinary representation among Washington decision-makers," said John M. Gonzalez, chair of AIDS Action's Foundation Board, and Terry Stone, Chair of AIDS Action's Council Board, in a joint statement. "Jamie's commitment to an improved fight against HIV in communities of color will help ensure fairness in treatment and prevention programs."

Fox, who will take the helm at AIDS Action in November after fulfilling the obligations of his current job, succeeds Daniel Zingale, who left in January to serve as director of California's new Department of Managed Care. In the interim, Claudia French will remain as acting executive director of the organization.

STATEMENTS ON JAMIE FOX

"Jamie Fox has been an invaluable Leadership staff member. His public service, dedication and commitment to improving the lives of all human beings will only continue in his new endeavor. Jamie's insight, experience and deep understanding of the inner workings of Washington will only add to AIDS Action experienced team. AIDS Action could have not chosen a more effective leader."

-- Senator Tom Daschle, Senate Minority Leader

"AIDS Action is a better place today for selecting Jamie. He has been extremely effective as Senator Torricelli's Chief of Staff and at the Senate Campaign Committee, and I know that AIDS Action will benefit from his experience and influence in the halls of Congress."

-- Rep. Dick Gephardt, House Minority Leader

"Those fighting to conquer AIDS have won a victory for all of us by securing Jamie's services. I look forward to working with him in the future."

-- Sen. Edward Kennedy

"Jamie succeeds where others might not through perseverance and a commitment to results that is without parallel."

-- Senator Patty Murray

"Jamie's work over the last two decades is the definition of effectiveness. His ability to work with Democrats and Republicans illustrate that he is truly a consummate professional."

-- Mike Torpey, Chief of Staff, Governor Christine Todd Whitman

"Jamie is a true New Jersey success story. AIDS Action could have no more influential nor effective leader to get its message heard."

-- Rep. Donald Payne

"AIDS Action can expect a bright future with Jamie's involvement. While he can be a very spirited partisan, his best fights have always been for people in need and the fight against AIDS is one of the most important battles yet to be won.

-- Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen

"There is no better advocate on your behalf than Jamie Fox. New Jersey's loss is AIDS Action's gain."

-- Rep. Frank LoBiondo