My Foundation

           I am a "Home Grown" leader everyone can vote for! I was born and raised in St. Charles Parish, and lived most of my life in Norco.  I reside in Montz with my wife, Katherine, our son, Henry, and our daughter, Anna Pierce.  Katherine is a former television news reporter who began a career in governmental affairs in 2004.  She works for Entergy.  Henry was born in December of 2010, and Anna Pierce was born in March of 2013.  Katherine and I are extremely proud of our children.
             
             As a teenager, I worked as a deck hand and laborer.  It taught me the value of a dollar, and helped me develop the solid work ethic that has influenced all aspects of my life, from active involvement in my family's local business, my own law practice, the former State Representative in House District 56 for twelve years, to the current State Senator in District 19.  As an active member of the First Baptist Church in Norco, my faith is a part of my daily life.  I am guided by our shared values in Baton Rouge, and I have been a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, less government, lower taxes, and I am Pro-Life.

  My Education

I attended both parochial and public school in St. Charles Parish. After graduating from Destrehan High School, where I excelled in academics and sports, I wanted to further my education, and did so with honors. I earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Louisiana State University and my Juris Doctor from Loyola School of Law, graduating in the top fourth of my class. I went on to receive my Masters Degree in Admiralty Law from Tulane School of Law which completed my personal educational goals.

  U.S. Capitol

In 1989, when my passion for politics started, I was selected by Billy Tauzin to be a Page in the 101st Congress. Then in 1992 I returned to Washington D.C. to work as an intern for Senator John Breaux. The following year I was back in the nation's capitol working on Congressman Tauzin's legislative staff. These opportunities each strengthened my desire to become a public servant and particularly to serve the people of Louisiana. I returned home with a real understanding of public service and the satisfaction it brings.

  Home Grown

   I was born and raised in this District.  I have a deep affection for the people of our district, and an appreciation of the advantages that it has to offer.  As a homeowner, small businessman, husband, and parent, I know and understand many of your concerns. I am a good listener and problem solver. As a practicing attorney and businessman, I look forward to using all of the skills I've acquired over the past twelve years as your State Representative and the past four years as your State Senator to continue serving the people of District 19.   It has been an honor to work with other elected officials on a Parish, State, and Federal level. I pledge to be honest, hard working, and always available to citizens of our District. I feel an elected official should represent the views of his constituents, not a political party, and I will continue to do just that. As your Senator, I will use my office unselfishly, working continuously to improve the standard of living and quality of life for every person in our District and State. I would consider it a great honor to serve as your State Senator, and I would appreciate your support in allowing me to continue serving you in this important position.

I Ask For Your Vote,

Gary L. Smith Jr.
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Paid for by the Gary L. Smith Jr. Campaign Fund
P.O. Box 189
Norco, LA 70079