Samuel Wilber Hager began his career as a schoolteacher after attending the University of Kentucky. He transitioned into law, becoming an associate attorney in Ashland, Kentucky. Hager's professional journey included significant roles in public finance, serving as Kentucky State Treasurer and Kentucky State Auditor. He also ventured into journalism, purchasing the Owensboro Inquirer. Hager's career was marked by a commitment to local governance and public service, as evidenced by his election as Judge/Executive of Boyd County and his appointment to the Kentucky Workmen's Compensation Board.

Samuel Wilber Hager's political identity is marked by a distinctive blend of local advocacy and progressive labor policies. His career, spanning roles from schoolteacher to state treasurer, reveals a commitment to education and fiscal responsibility. Notably, Hager's involvement with the Kentucky Workmen's Compensation Board showcases an unusual alignment with labor rights within a broader conservative economic framework. His ownership of a local newspaper further underscores a localized approach to governance, emphasizing regional interests and community engagement.