Chief of Staff

Tim Griesmer

Tim Griesmer has been the Chief of Staff for the Colorado Senate Republicans since January 2019. He previously served as the legislative liaison for former Colorado Secretary of State Wayne Williams. Tim is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York and the University of Denver Institute for Public Policy Studies. He lives in Denver.

Policy Director

Jason Helland

Jason Helland is the Policy Director for the Colorado Senate Republicans – a position he has held since 2017. Mr. Helland is a member of the Colorado Bar and his church council. Additionally, Mr. Helland is an avid hockey fan who loves any opportunity to talk about last night’s games or trade rumors. A native from the Dakotas (North Dakota born, South Dakota raised), Mr. Helland now lives in Denver with his wife where the two can frequently be found reading or re-watching Harry Potter films.

Deputy Policy Director

Taylor Boyer

Taylor Boyer currently serves as the Deputy Policy Director for the Colorado Senate Republicans – his fourth session with the caucus. Taylor grew up in Northeastern Colorado but currently resides with his wife in Denver. Prior to serving with the caucus, Taylor lived abroad for two years in Jamaica as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Taylor represents the Colorado State Senate as a director on the executive committee of the Leadership Staff Professional Association, a position he was elected to this year. Taylor has previously held positions as a legal assistant, communications assistant, and legislative analyst.

Policy Analyst

Kayleigh Cornell

Kayleigh Cornell is a proud Colorado Native, serving as the Policy Analyst for the Colorado Senate Republicans this session. She has worked on several previous local campaigns and looks forward to bringing that experience forward. Kayleigh graduated CU Boulder in Spring 2021 with a degree in Anthropology and minors in Geology, Education, and Leadership. When she is not at work, Kayleigh is either in the dance studio, playing with her dog, hiking, or reading a book.

Legislative Analyst

Kimberly Hanson

Kimberly Hanson is a born and raised Colorado Native who has recently joined the Minority Office this session. She is currently a Senior at the University of Colorado Denver majoring in Criminal Justice with the goal of attending law school upon graduation. When she is not in the capital she can be found doing extensive amounts of homework and LSAT prep, as well as occasionally enjoying the beautiful state of Colorado.

Budget Analyst

Mike McMacken

Mike McMacken is the Budget Analyst for the Colorado Senate Republicans and is returning from being a legislative aide in 2019. He brings his experience from managing large scale digital fundraising and marketing programs for conservative campaigns and organizations across the nation. Born and raised in Denver, Mike is a classic Colorado outdoor sports enthusiast cheering on the Broncos and Avalanche year round. When he is not at work or on a ski hill you can find him working on one of his new hobbies, woodworking or working on his car.

Deputy Communications Director

Hayden Rastall

Hayden Rastall is serving as the Deputy Communications Director for the Senate Republicans in 2023. He has lived in CO his whole life and grew up in the DU area. Hayden attended East Highschool and CU Boulder, where he pursued a major in communications with a minor in leadership. His background is in campaigns and grassroots mobilization. Outside of work, Hayden enjoys exploring the outdoors, fitness, and community service.

Office Director & Executive Assistant to the Minority Leader

Jerry Wheeler

Jerry Wheeler joined the staff as Office Director and Executive Assistant to the Minority Leader.  He brings to the position his experience of 21 years as a Legislative Aide to over a dozen legislators. He roots for the Rockies and is a major movie fan.  He resides in Denver, and remains active in the Denver GOP where he has been a volunteer, district captain, and candidate.