Edward Hoch spent his formative years in Kentucky, where he attended Central University before relocating to Kansas. He established a homestead and became a newspaper editor in Marion, gaining early experience in public communication. Hoch transitioned into politics, serving multiple terms in the Kansas House of Representatives. He later leveraged his political network to become governor, during which he enacted significant reforms, including laws on child labor, food purity, banking, and freight rates. After his governorship, Hoch continued to contribute to public service on the Kansas Board of Administration and remained active in civic life as a newspaper publisher and orator.

Edward Hoch's political career reveals an intriguing blend of progressive social reforms with a focus on regional economic stability. His advocacy for a child labor law and pure food law indicates a progressive stance on social welfare, while his support for a bank guaranty law and a maximum freight rate bill shows a calculated effort to stabilize the local economy. Hoch's tenure as governor saw improvements in juvenile courts and state institutions, suggesting a nuanced approach to governance that balances reform with practical administration. His post-political career as a lecturer further underscores a commitment to public discourse and education.