Robert Burns Smith began his career in education, teaching at a high school and later becoming a principal. He then transitioned to law, practicing in multiple locations and eventually forming a law partnership. Smith held various legal and governmental positions, including U.S. District Attorney and city attorney. He was elected Governor of Montana, during which he focused on infrastructure and education, establishing several state institutions. After his term, Smith returned to private practice and later engaged in the orchard business.

Robert Burns Smith's political career reveals a unique blend of progressive infrastructure initiatives with populist coalition-building. His tenure as Governor saw significant investments in education and transportation, yet he achieved these goals through an unusual alliance of Democrats and Populists. Smith's approach to governance highlights a strategic tension between traditional party lines and pragmatic regional development.