Rosie Heiss brings Arkansas family ties, military service and congressional experience to new leadership role.
A woman with strong family connections to Carlisle, Arkansas, has been selected to serve as the next Chief of Staff for U.S. Senator John Boozman. Rosie Heiss, whose father is a native of Carlisle in Lonoke County, will become Boozman’s Chief of Staff at the beginning of the 120th Congress in January 2027.
The announcement places a spotlight on Heiss’ Arkansas family roots, her military service and her experience working on national defense, veterans’ affairs and federal appropriations.
Strong Family Connections to Carlisle, Arkansas
Although Heiss has built her career in military and government service, her family has longstanding connections to Arkansas.
Her father is originally from Carlisle, Arkansas, and served in the United States Air Force.
Both of Heiss’ parents are graduates of the University of Arkansas, adding another connection to the Natural State.
The family background is especially significant as Heiss prepares to take one of the most senior staff positions in the office of Arkansas’ U.S. senator.
Heiss also followed a path of military service, serving on active duty in the U.S. Air Force during the Global War on Terror.
She deployed in support of military operations in Iraq before continuing her career in national security and public service.
Military Service and National Security Experience
Before moving into senior congressional positions, Heiss held civilian roles with the U.S. Navy and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
She previously served as Senator Boozman’s Senior Defense Advisor, working on national security and veterans policy.
Heiss later served as a Professional Staff Member on the Senate Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Defense, gaining experience with federal defense funding and congressional oversight.
In January 2025, she returned to Boozman’s office as Legislative Director and Deputy Chief of Staff.
In those positions, she has helped oversee the senator’s legislative staff and work on policy priorities affecting Arkansas and the nation.
Boozman Praises Incoming Chief of Staff
Senator Boozman praised Heiss for her experience, leadership and commitment to public service.
“Rosie first served as a key advisor to me on national security and veterans policy before returning to our team to lead my entire legislative staff, including our Appropriations Committee efforts that deliver critical federal investments to The Natural State,” Boozman said.
The senator said he is confident Heiss will provide important guidance and leadership as his incoming Chief of Staff.
Heiss expressed appreciation for the opportunity to continue serving Arkansas residents.
“I am honored to serve in this new capacity for Senator Boozman and the team, as well as incredibly grateful that I get to keep serving Arkansans,” Heiss said.
She added that Boozman’s emphasis on using the power of his office for good will remain a guiding principle in her new position.
Longtime Chief of Staff Departing
Heiss will succeed Toni-Marie Higgins, who is leaving the senator’s office for an opportunity in the private sector.
Higgins has worked for Boozman since 2007 and has served as Chief of Staff since 2017.
Her responsibilities have included overseeing legislative priorities, constituent services and outreach across Arkansas.
In 2026, Higgins received the Congressional Management Foundation’s Senate Republican Chief of Staff of the Year recognition.
She has also served as a Stennis Center for Public Service Senior Fellow and was recognized by Washingtonian Magazine as 1 of the most influential women on Capitol Hill.
Boozman expressed gratitude for her nearly 20 years of service.
“Toni-Marie has been my most trusted advisor for a decade and championed her adopted state of Arkansas with passion and unwavering dedication,” Boozman said.
He also thanked Higgins for her contributions to the Senate, his office and the people of Arkansas.
A New Chapter With Arkansas Roots
Heiss is expected to begin her new responsibilities when the 120th Congress convenes in January 2027.
As Chief of Staff, she will help manage the senator’s office, coordinate legislative priorities and oversee staff efforts to assist Arkansas constituents.
For residents of Carlisle and Lonoke County, the announcement carries a notable local connection.
The daughter of a Carlisle native and Air Force veteran, with 2 University of Arkansas graduates as parents, is preparing to become the top staff member for one of Arkansas’ representatives in the United States Senate.
Her appointment brings together a family connection to Arkansas, a background in military service and years of experience in federal government.
Source: Office of U.S. Senator John Boozman
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