Delegate Doug Smith is a Republican representing District 39 in the West Virginia House of Delegates since 2021. Born on January 1, 1967, in Waterloo, Iowa, he is a retired U.S. Army Colonel and Military Police officer with over 34 years of service, including roles as Battalion Commander, Chief of Operations for the U.S. Army Reserve Command, and Director G-34 Provost Marshal. Originally from Kansas, he has resided in Princeton, West Virginia, since 2005, with his wife Shirley and their dog Buddy. He is Catholic and affiliated with organizations such as the National Rifle Association , Veterans of Foreign Wars , Military Officers Association of America , and North American Hunting Club . Notable military service includes commanding the maximum-security detention facility at Camp Delta, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

Education and Political Experience

Education:

- Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, Wichita State University

- Master of Public Administration in Criminal Justice, City University, Bellevue, Washington

- Master of Strategic Studies, U.S. Army War College

Political Experience:

- West Virginia House of Delegates, District 39 ; lead sponsor of 147 bills in the 2026 session, including legislation on concealed carry of firearms and modifications to the State Board of Education.