Why this Democrat proudly supports Sen. John Boozman

Here’s something you don’t hear every day: a die-hard Democrat who served in the Obama Administration and who regularly appears on Fox News promoting Democrats — proudly supporting Republican Senator John Boozman.

I wasn’t always in his corner, but his character, humility, and leadership won me over. Now, as chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, he’s exactly what Arkansas and the nation needs.

My first encounter with then-Congressman John Boozman came as an 18-year-old intern and recent Van Buren High School graduate in his Fort Smith Congressional office during the summer of 2002, shortly after 9/11 and the anthrax scare. One of my tasks was opening mail in the basement of the Fort Smith federal building, wearing a mask and working in a secure, transparent container.

But my most memorable experience that summer was far removed from those anxious times. I had the honor of driving then-Congressman Boozman to what I believe was the Altus Grape Festival. For an hour each way, he peppered me with questions, not about policy or politics, but about me: my family, my decision to attend Hendrix College, and my dreams for the future.

“Oh, you must be a smart one,” he quipped when I mentioned Hendrix. I quickly corrected him, “No sir, I’m just a really hard worker.” He laughed and said he could relate. That conversation, and the congressman’s genuine interest in an eager young intern, left an indelible mark on me.

At the festival, I watched as the petite mayor of Altus tried to coax the Congressman into dancing. He gamely gave it his best shot, laughing alongside the community he so clearly cherished. That day cemented my first impression of John Boozman as a public servant who listens, learns, and leads with humility.

After college, I moved to Washington, I switched parties and began a career in Democratic politics, working for another great Arkansas public servant, Congressman Mike Ross. I later served in the Obama Administration, in senior roles on Capitol Hill, and even briefly for New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu.
I’ve also led or helped lead Democratic campaigns across the country (including Mike Ross’ 2014 gubernatorial run). Despite our partisan differences, my respect for Senator Boozman has only grown over the years. During my time on Capitol Hill, I even joined his Congressional softball team — a move that raised eyebrows among my Democratic colleagues on Sen. Mark Pryor’s team, but underscored Boozman’s bipartisan approach. To him, I wasn’t just a Democrat; I was a fellow Arkansan, and that made us teammates.

That sense of unity and shared purpose has defined Boozman’s career. His staff reflects his leadership — professional, approachable, and always focused on putting Arkansas first. His chief of staff, Toni-Marie Higgins, is a prime example, balancing loyalty to the senator with a willingness to engage with Arkansans from all political stripes. Even when I briefly led a campaign opposing Boozman, Toni-Marie’s professionalism shone through. I eventually left that campaign, as my respect for Boozman outweighed my partisan instincts.

Now, as chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee, Senator Boozman is uniquely positioned to address some of the most pressing challenges facing our state and nation. Family farms are vanishing at an alarming rate, globalization and climate change are reshaping our food supply, and proposed tariffs threaten to disrupt the agricultural markets our farmers depend on. Boozman’s steady hand and deep understanding of these issues will be critical in crafting policies that protect Arkansas farmers and ensure America’s food security.

Under his leadership, I’m confident the Senate Agriculture Committee will prioritize the needs of rural America, champion innovative solutions that help Americans compete abroad, and support the next generation of farmers and ranchers, especially here at home. Boozman’s commitment to Arkansas’ agricultural heritage is unwavering, and his bipartisan approach ensures that these issues remain above the partisan fray.

While I’ve long since left the Republican Party, my admiration for John Boozman endures. He embodies the best of Arkansas — a servant leader who puts people first, listens more than he speaks, and approaches every challenge with humility and grace. At a time when our politics often feel divisive, Boozman’s example reminds us that public service is about more than party lines. It’s about delivering results for the people you care about.

As an Arkansan, I’m proud to see Senator Boozman leading on agriculture at such a pivotal moment. His work will not only benefit our state’s farmers but also strengthen America’s food supply and rural communities for generations to come. Senator Boozman, thank you for your service and your unwavering commitment to Arkansas. We are lucky to have you in our corner.

Editor’s note: Brad Howard is a Democratic strategist and founder and president of the Washington, D.C., based Corcoran Street Group. An Obama Administration alumnus, he previously served as chief of staff to former Rep. Stephanie Murphy, D-Fla., and as spokesperson for the House Blue Dog Coalition; U.S. Rep. Mike Ross, D-Ark.; and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. The opinions expressed are those of the author.