Roel Benavides, Jr.

Roel Benavides, Jr. brings more than a decade of experience, perspective, and purpose to his work at the Texas Capitol. As Chief of Staff to State Representative Charles Cunningham, he supports the member’s work across multiple committees including Local & Consent Calendars, Public Education, Public Health, and the Subcommittee on Disease Prevention and Women’s & Children’s Health. Ensuring that each initiative is grounded in data, strategy, and compassion.

“Roel is a humble yet effective leader who genuinely cares about the impact his work has on students, families, and communities across Texas,” one nominator wrote. “He’s skilled at navigating complex legislative issues, building relationships, and keeping policy focused on people.”

Known for his professionalism, integrity, and steady guidance, Roel has earned a reputation for being both a problem-solver and a bridge-builder. His policy expertise spans public education, criminal justice, and natural resources. These are areas where his ability to find consensus has made a lasting impact on the legislative process.

A graduate of the University of Houston, Roel began his career as a Legislative Intern and worked his way through nearly every role in the Texas House, from Committee Clerk to Chief of Staff, mastering the details that make good ideas become good law.

As one of this year’s Top Staffers of the Year, Roel Benavides, Jr. represents the professionalism, dedication, and heart that define Texas’s most respected public servants.