Prior to being a state representative, Ashby was a local politician and business owner.

Trenton Edward Ashby[1] was born on October 9, 1972, in Rusk County, Texas.

[2][3] He was raised in rural Rusk County on a dairy farm and diversified livestock operation.

[3] Graduating from Henderson High School, Ashby would go on to attend Texas A&M University where he was elected to the Student Senate, Senior Yell Leader, and Class Treasurer.

In October 2020, Ashby filed for candidacy to be speaker of Texas House of Representatives.