Born in Burlington, Kentucky, Rouse attended the public schools, graduating from Boone County High School. He was graduated from Hanover College, Indiana, in 1896 and from the Louisville Law School in 1900. He was admitted to the bar in 1900 and commenced practice in Burlington.
Political career
In 1907, Rouse became the first secretary of the Kentucky State Racing Commission and served four years in that capacity. He then served as State revenue commissioner under Gov. Ruby Laffoon. He was secretary to Representatives Daniel Linn Gooch and Joseph L. Rhinock. He served as member of the Democratic State executive committee from 1903 to 1910.
Rouse was elected as a Democrat to the Sixty-second and to the seven succeeding Congresses (March 4, 1911 – March 3, 1927). He was not a candidate for renomination in 1926. He served as chairman of the Democratic National Congressional Committee from 1921 until he resigned in December 1924. He resumed the practice of law in Erlanger, Kentucky, and operated several bus companies, including Dixie Traction.
