CHIEF OF STAFF - - -
Ricardo Montoya Picazo was born in Mexico and was brought to the United States at the age of 7. He grew up in Central Illinois (Beardstown, IL) where he graduated from Beardstown High School. Soon after graduation, he went on to study at the University of Illinois at Springfield where he received his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science (2010) and Masters Degree in Practical Politics (2012).
Ricardo began his professional career working for a statewide non-for-profit organization on social, economic, and political issues. He then moved to Rockford, IL in 2015 where he was hired to be the Field Representative for Congresswoman Cheri Bustos, IL-17th District and was in-charge to oversee five northwestern counties from the Congresswoman's Rockford District Office. He stayed in that role for over five years, until taking the position as Chief of Staff for State Representative Dave Vella, IL-68th District at the start of 2021.
Ricardo brings to his role high professional experience in government, legislative, and public affairs relations. He looks forward to serving the people of the 68th District and to solving any issues the residents in the district might have with the State of Illinois.