Paula Jean Swearengin grew up in a coal-mining family in West Virginia, where she was exposed to the impacts of the industry early on. She has dedicated her career to advocating for economic diversity, clean air, and clean water. Swearengin has held leadership roles in environmental organizations and has experience in public advocacy. Her professional background includes serving on the board and as a representative for the Keepers of the Mountain Foundation, and she has spoken on behalf of the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition and the Sierra Club. Swearengin has also been involved in political campaigns, supporting Bernie Sanders in 2016.

Paula Jean Swearengin's political identity is shaped by a unique blend of progressive ideals and pragmatic regionalism. She champions a Medicare for All plan while also advocating for localized environmental protections, such as opposing mountaintop removal mining. Her stance on cannabis legalization and support for raising the minimum wage juxtaposes traditional labor advocacy with progressive social policies. Swearengin's approach reveals a strategic focus on balancing ideological consistency with the practical needs of her community.