Chuck Smith is an attorney and veteran running in the 2026 Republican primary for U.S. Senate. Smith has significant military legal experience, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps at age 17 for six years and later in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps as an attorney for two decades. He earned his B.A. and J.D. from North Carolina Central University and received his commission from the U.S. Navy JAG Corps. Smith completed his certification in military science from the Naval Justice School. He comes from humble beginnings, growing up in the projects of Greensboro, North Carolina and rising through public schools and publicly funded colleges. Smith is a conservative who emphasizes constitutional principles, particularly the Second Amendment and right to life.
Chuck Smith was born and raised in Greensboro, North Carolina in the projects. At age 17, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps where he served for six years. After his Marine service, Smith earned his B.A. and J.D. from North Carolina Central University and received his commission from the U.S. Navy JAG Corps. He served in the Navy as an attorney for two decades and earned his certification in military science from the Naval Justice School. Smith is married with five children. Previously, he ran for U.S. House representing Virginia's 3rd District in 2012 but withdrew before the primary. He is described as a perennial candidate with a conservative worldview grounded in constitutional principles and personal faith.