NE Missouri News

Congressman Sam Graves, representing Missouri's 6th District and serving as Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, has announced changes in senior leadership within his office and the Transportation Committee. These changes involve individuals with strong connections to Missouri.

Nick Christensen, a native of Fulton who began his career as an intern in Graves' office in 2014, will now serve as Staff Director of the House Transportation Committee. This transition occurs at a crucial time for the committee as it prepares to draft and pass a long-term highway bill. Christensen was previously Graves’ Chief of Staff in Washington, DC.

Several other North Missourians are set to assume additional leadership roles following Christensen's move. Congressman Graves expressed confidence in his team: “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.”

Buffy Smith from Bethany and currently residing in Platte City will take over as Chief of Staff. Smith has been part of Graves’ office since early in his tenure, most recently holding the position of Missouri Chief of Staff after serving as District Director and Scheduler.

Jon Harder, hailing from Knox County, will become Deputy Chief of Staff based out of Washington, DC. He joined Graves' office in 2019 and has worked in legislative and press capacities; he will also maintain his role as Legislative Director.

Bryan Nichols from rural Palmyra is appointed Deputy Chief of Staff for North Missouri, operating from Graves’ Hannibal office. Nichols has been part of Graves’ Northeast Missouri office since 2014 and will continue as Communications Director.