This series contains reference files maintained by Smathers as well as copies of speeches he gave. Much of the material was used as background material for public appearances, but also as a ready reference file for major topics. Correspondence related to the topics can sometimes be found as well as news clippings, magazine articles, and handwritten notes. The series also contains prepared statements and remarks made on the Senate floor.

The series begins with materials generated before Smathers won election to Congress in 1946 which includes material from his student days at the University of Florida, his time as a federal attorney, and from his 1946 election. After 1946, the files are arranged chronologically and then alphabetically.

Speeches made after Smathers left the Senate will be found under Miscellaneous.

This series includes press releases made by Smathers throughout his career. Additional press releases may be found in the speech files, media files, and campaign materials within this collection. Files are arranged chronologically.

This series includes recorded statements, press releases, and statements made in television, radio and print media. Transcripts of radio addresses often appear with recorded media. Audio disks have not been reformatted and cannot be played at this time. Related materials may be found in the speech and reference files, press releases, and campaign materials within this collection.

Files pertaining to the U.S. Senate election in 1950, particularly the primary election race between Smathers and Claude Pepper. The correspondence, campaign literature, and related documents deal with campaign support, key men and women, major campaign issues, voting records, itineraries and engagements, advertising, and the press. There are numerous files documenting the mud-slinging nature of the campaign, including copies of the publication, "The Red Record of Senator Claude Pepper." Note that there are photographs and other documents pertaining to this campaign that can be found in other sections of the collection.

Files pertaining to the U.S. Senate election in 1956. Includes correspondence, campaign literature, and related documents dealing with campaign support, key men and women, major campaign issues, voting records, itineraries and engagements, advertising, and the press.

Files primarily pertaining to the Presidential election in 1960 in which Smathers was named Florida's Favorite Son and nominated for President. Most of the documents are related to Smathers' campaigning efforts on behalf of Kennedy. Files are arranged alphabetically.

Files pertaining to the U.S. Senate election in 1962. Includes correspondence, campaign literature, and related documents dealing with campaign support, key men and women, major campaign issues, voting records, itineraries and engagements, advertising, and the press. Files are arranged alphabetically.