Graves Announces Senior Leadership Changes

Washington, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06), Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, has announced several senior leadership changes in his office and at the Transportation Committee, all with Missouri ties.

Fulton native Nick Christensen, who has risen through the ranks in Graves’ office since his first internship in 2014, will take over as Staff Director of the House Transportation Committee, during one of the most important times in the committee’s history, with a long-term highway bill set to be crafted and passed in the coming months. Christensen most recently served as Graves’ Washington, DC Chief of Staff. 

With Christensen moving to the Transportation Committee, several North Missourians will take on additional leadership roles. 

“I’ve got a great team in place, both in my office and at the Transportation Committee. I can’t overstate the importance of a Missouri-grown staff focused on doing what’s right for North Missouri. I’m thrilled to be able to represent the people of North Missouri with this team in place.” 

Bethany native and Platte City resident Buffy Smith will serve as Chief of Staff. Smith has served in Graves’ office since early in his tenure, most recently as Missouri Chief of Staff. She previously served as District Director and Scheduler.

Based in the Washington, DC office, Knox County native Jon Harder will assume the role of Deputy Chief of Staff - Washington, DC. He has served in Graves office since 2019 in both legislative and press roles. He will also continue as Legislative Director.

Finally, Bryan Nichols of rural Palmyra will take on the role of Deputy Chief of Staff for North Missouri, based out of Graves’ Hannibal office. He has served in Graves’ Northeast Missouri office since 2014 and will also continue as Communications Director. 

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