Denise Firmin Garner is a Democratic state representative serving Arkansas House District 20, which covers parts of Washington County including Fayetteville. First elected in 2018 to the then-District 84 , she was reelected in 2022 and 2024, and is currently in her fourth term during the 95th General Assembly . A retired Registered Nurse Practitioner and small business owner , Garner has focused on education, maternal and infant health, and community nonprofits.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Attended Baylor University; graduated from the University of Arkansas Medical School with a B.S.N. and R.N. certification.
• Professional Background: Oncology Nurse Practitioner for much of her career; founded Feed Fayetteville and Role Call; board roles include Washington Regional Medical Center Foundation , UAMS Rockefeller Cancer Institute, UAMS Psychiatric Research Institute, University of Arkansas Foundation, and Fulbright College Advisory Board.
• Political Experience: Serves on House Education Committee, House Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development Committee, Joint Budget Committee, and House Committee on Legislative Council ; advocates for fully funded public schools, early childhood education, and improved maternal/infant health outcomes.