Born: 1950
Biography:
Linda Smith (born July 16, 1950) is a prominent figure in American politics and an advocate for victims of sex trafficking. She rose to prominence as a member of the Republican Party and served as the representative for Washington’s 3rd congressional district from 1995 to 1999. Although her bid for the U.S. Senate in 1998 was unsuccessful, Smith’s political career was marked by dedication to conservative principles and a commitment to advocating for those in need.
Smith’s early life was marked by resilience and perseverance. Growing up in a working-class home, she faced numerous challenges. Her father abandoned the family, and her mother remarried a mechanic. In 1966, the family relocated to Vancouver, Washington. Smith, the second oldest among her siblings, experienced the hardships of life at a young age. To support herself, she took on part-time jobs as a fruit picker and a daycare aide while attending high school. Reflecting on her experiences during this time, Smith later remarked, I felt like by 17, I had had more lives than most people.
Tragedy struck when Smith’s mother passed away from cancer when she was just 24 years old, leaving her responsible for caring for her two younger brothers. In 1968, she married Vern Smith, a young locomotive engineer, and together they raised two children. Smith also achieved professional success, becoming the manager of several independent tax offices in Southern Washington.
Smith embarked on her political career in 1983 when she participated in a special election. She defeated a Democratic Party incumbent to secure a seat in the Washington House of Representatives. Building on her success, Smith advanced to the state Senate in 1987, contributing to Republicans’ control of the chamber. Her rise within the Republican Party culminated in a September 1994 write-in campaign to elect her to Washington’s 3rd congressional district. This opportunity arose when the Republican candidate suddenly dropped out of the race. For 19 days, Smith initiated a grassroots campaign, ultimately defeating the only Republican candidate listed on the primary ballot.
As a representative, Smith quickly established herself as a true conservative, championing pro-life causes and advocating for campaign finance reform. Her unwavering commitment to her principles made her a respected figure among her colleagues. Notably, Smith was one of only nine House Republicans who voted against confirming House Speaker Newt Gingrich in early 1997. She demonstrated her resolute stance once again in November 1997 when she co-sponsored a resolution by Bob Barr, along with seventeen other Republicans, calling for an impeachment inquiry against President Bill Clinton. Although the resolution did not specify any charges or allegations, it reflected Smith’s dedication to upholding ethical standards in government.
Following her departure from politics, Smith turned her attention to combating sex trafficking. In recognition of the severity of this issue, she founded Shared Hope International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending minor sex trafficking. Through this organization, Smith has tirelessly worked both domestically and internationally to support survivors and raise awareness about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals.
Smith’s enduring legacy lies in her commitment to standing up for those in need and making a difference in the world. Her political career, marked by electoral victories, demonstrated her dedication to her constituents and her conservative values. By founding Shared Hope International, she has become a leading voice in the fight against sex trafficking, bringing hope to countless survivors and advocating for justice.