Smith then embarked on a business career, and his interests included farming, banking, and real estate.

Smith went on to win the general election held in November, although Julius Rosenwald of Sears, Roebuck & Company had offered him $550,000 in stock to withdraw.

He died in December 1926, and Illinois Governor Len Small (R) appointed Smith to fill the vacancy.

When Smith presented his credentials, the U.S. Senate voted not to seat him, based upon the alleged fraud and corruption.

In March 1927, he again attempted to qualify, based on the results of the November 1926 election, but the senate again declined to seat him.