Young Louisiana Lawmaker Becomes Governor's Chief of Staff

Julie Emerson, at 37, takes on top role after emerging as a conservative leader in the state legislature.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Julie Emerson was only 27 when she became the youngest Republican woman elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives. Over the last two years, she emerged as one of Gov. Jeff Landry's floor leaders, helping to push through ambitious proposals on tax reform, school choice, and election changes. On Tuesday, Landry brought Emerson, now 37, into his administration as his new chief of staff.

Why it matters

Emerson's rapid rise to a top government position at a young age highlights her political influence and ability to advance conservative priorities in the state. Her appointment also signals Landry's trust in her leadership and legislative expertise as he navigates his second term as governor.

The details

As a state representative, Emerson chaired a key finance committee and worked to flatten personal income tax rates, expand state funding for private school tuition, and redesign Louisiana's election system. Lawmakers describe her as a hard-working, detail-oriented legislator who is willing to reach across the aisle. Despite her conservative views, she has been responsive to concerns from Democrats. Emerson now takes on the role of chief of staff, where she can continue to shape the governor's agenda on issues like tax reform, insurance, and crime.

  • Emerson was elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives at age 27 in 2016.
  • Over the last two years, she emerged as a key leader in the legislature.
  • Emerson was appointed as Gov. Jeff Landry's chief of staff on February 12, 2026.

The players

Julie Emerson

A 37-year-old Republican who was the youngest woman elected to the Louisiana House of Representatives and is now the new chief of staff for Gov. Jeff Landry.

Jeff Landry

The Republican governor of Louisiana who appointed Emerson as his new chief of staff.

Phillip DeVillier

The Republican speaker of the Louisiana House of Representatives who praised Emerson's legislative accomplishments.

Jack McFarland

The Republican chair of the Louisiana House Appropriations Committee who described Emerson's strong work ethic.

Mandie Landry

A Democratic state representative from New Orleans who said Emerson was responsive to her concerns.

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What they’re saying

“Julie's a legislator that has just a very unique ability to bring legislation that is transformative to our state and actually see it all the way through to become law.”

— Phillip DeVillier, Louisiana House Speaker (stmarynow.com)

“It's that type of work ethic – it's contagious, and it makes other people want to rise up when you have that type of work ethic.”

— Jack McFarland, Louisiana House Appropriations Committee Chair (stmarynow.com)

“She will reach out when she has questions or knows that I will oppose the legislation she is presenting.”

— Mandie Landry, Democratic State Representative (stmarynow.com)

What’s next

Emerson's appointment as chief of staff will allow her to continue shaping the governor's agenda on key issues like tax reform, insurance, and crime.

The takeaway

At just 37 years old, Julie Emerson has rapidly risen to a position of significant influence in Louisiana politics, demonstrating her ability to advance conservative priorities through both the legislative process and now the governor's office. Her appointment signals the trust placed in her leadership by the state's top Republican officials.