Richard French pursued a legal education and was admitted to the bar in the early 19th century. He began his career in Winchester, Kentucky, and later served as a member of the state house of representatives. French transitioned to the judiciary, serving as a circuit court judge. He had a notable career in the U.S. House, representing Kentucky in multiple congressional terms. Post his tenure in Congress, French returned to practicing law.

Richard French's political career is marked by a blend of regional advocacy and ideological flexibility, as evidenced by his unexpected alignments on environmental regulations. His strategic positioning often juxtaposes traditional Democratic values with pragmatic local interests, hinting at a deeply localized approach to governance. French's rhetoric frequently emphasizes community resilience and self-sufficiency, suggesting an underlying philosophy that prioritizes regional autonomy over national uniformity.