James Emerson Smith Jr. (born September 9, 1967) is an American politician who served as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives from 1996 to 2019.

Smith can trace military service in his family in every generation back to the American Revolutionary War.

[6] He appeared at the Chapin Labor Day Parade in early September, further stoking speculation that he would run for governor.

In 2001, following the September 11 attacks, Smith resigned his commission and enlisted as an infantryman, beginning basic training.

He served as a combat advisor to Afghan National Security Forces in remote areas of southern Afghanistan.

He remains a member of the South Carolina Army National Guard, at the rank of lieutenant colonel.

The firm provides legal help to injured people, including members of the military, as well as class action lawsuits and business law and litigation services.

They have four children: Evie Emerson Smith, Thomas Bridges, Paul Bradford Jr, and Shannon Elizabeth.