Martine Smith Biography

Martine Dirick Smith was born and raised in French-speaking Belgium until she came to the United States to attend college in 1973.  Marriage and children derailed those plans but in 1997 she re-enrolled in college. In 2001, she received her B.A. in political science with an emphasis in public policy. Prior to graduation, Martine completed an internship at the Utah State Senate where she developed a strong interest in state government and policy. Since then, she has been involved with the State Legislature in varying capacities. She has worked as an assistant to a senator, a lobbyist, and in 2004, ran for a seat in the House.  Although unsuccessful, she learned much about the process and through hard work received a significantly higher percentage of the vote totals than the Republican candidates who ran before and after her.

In 2006, Martine Smith served as Salt Lake Metro Area campaign director for U.S. Senator Orrin Hatch. In that capacity, she was responsible for scheduling and organizing Sen. Hatch’s appearances, coordinating events, and working with a multitude of volunteers. During that time, she continued to foster and develop relationships already established when working in the State Senate and during her campaign.  

Martine has been married to Stuart Smith, of Salt Lake City, for 33 years. They have one living son (and one granddaughter). From 1977-1995, Martine and her family resided in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.