Peter Plympton Smith holds a robust educational background, culminating in an Ed.D. in administration, planning, and social policy. He began his career in education, serving as an assistant to the Vermont Commissioner of Education and founding the Community College of Vermont. Smith's academic pursuits include a focus on economic development and social change, as reflected in his senior thesis. His early foray into politics involved a successful primary campaign and a subsequent general election loss for Lieutenant Governor.

Peter Plympton Smith blends historical insights with progressive policy advocacy, as seen in his thesis and educational initiatives. His approach to economic development often intertwines with social change, suggesting a deeply rooted belief in the interconnectedness of these areas. Smith's rhetoric frequently emphasizes localized impacts, which sometimes leads to surprising alliances across ideological divides. His policy stances reveal an ideologically agile thinker, adept at navigating complex regional interests.