Samuel H. Smith

Samuel H. "Sam" Smith (born August 10, 1955) is an American politician and former Republican member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 66th District who served from 1986 to 2015. The district included portions of Jefferson, Indiana and Armstrong counties. He was elected Speaker in January 2011 and served until January 2015, when he was succeeded by Mike Turzai.

Early life and education Born in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, Smith attended and graduated from Punxsutawney Area High School and later earned a bachelor's degree in journalism from Penn State University.

Career After working for several years in the construction industry, he later took a job with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. In 1986 Smith was elected to succeed his father, Eugene "Snuffy" Smith, who had represented the 66th district since 1963.

He served as Minority Leader from 2007 through 2010, and spoke for his party on the floor and led debate on major issues. Prior to the Democratic takeover in the 2006 election, Smith served as Majority Leader where he was responsible for planning, discussion, debate and final passage of legislation. He was also majority whip through 2004.

Following the 2010 election, which saw Republicans regain their House majority, Smith was elected Speaker when the House reconvened.