Doug Smith

Douglas D. Smith (born January 1, 1967) is an American politician who has served as a Delegate from the 27th District to the West Virginia House of Delegates since 2020. He is a Republican.

Early life, education, and career Smith was born in Waterloo, Iowa. He received a B.S. in criminal justice at Wichita State University in 1989. In 2006, he received a Master of Public Administration in the same field. Smith graduated from the United States Army War College in 2012. Smith served in the United States Army from 1984 to 2018.

Elections 2020 In his first primary, Smith competed in a five-way race, being nominated alongside two fellow Republicans. Smith received 19.94% of the vote. Incumbent Eric Porterfield finished last, failing to be nominated.

In the general, Smith defeated Democrat Tina Russell with 28.30% of the vote.

Tenure Committee assignments Education Government Organization Senior, Children, and Family Issues Veterans Affairs and Homeland Security

Abortion Smith opposes abortion except in the case of rape or incest. He supports legislation like the Hyde Amendment.

Crime Smith supports capital punishment. He believes in the use of private prisons but opposes mandatory minimums for non-violent drug offenders.

Economy Smith supports reducing property taxes. Smith supports reducing government regulations on business, endorsing a "business-friendly environment."

Smith supports an increase in the minimum wage and supports paid family leave. However, he opposes requiring paid medical leave during public health emergencies. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith endorsed relief for corporations harmed by the pandemic, like the CARES Act. He supports increased state funding for renewable energy.

Education Smith was the lead sponsor of House Bill 2012, which increased the allowed number of charter schools in West Virginia from three to ten. The legislation was signed by West Virginia governor Jim Justice in March 2021. Smith also suggested that West Virginia students could receive their education through virtual charter schools as well.

Gun rights Smith opposes most forms of gun control, including requiring gun licenses and background checks. He has a "AQ" rating from the NRA Political Victory Fund and was endorsed by them in his 2020 campaign. Smith was the lead sponsor of House Bill 2364, which would allow concealed carry for school staff. He also was the lead sponsor of a bill to permit concealed carry on the grounds of the West Virginia capitol. Neither bill made it to a vote before the full House of Delegates.

Transgender rights Smith opposes including sexual orientation and gender identity in anti-discrimination laws. He voted for Senate Bill 341, a bill that would prohibit transgender athletes from competing on the team that aligns with their gender identity.

Personal life Smith is married to Shirley Smith. He is a Catholic and a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars. He is a recipient of the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal, among other awards for his service in the US Army.