Al Smith was an American politician who served as the Governor of New York from 1923 to 1928. He was a member of the Democratic Party and was known for his progressive policies, which included advocating for labor rights and social welfare programs. Smith was the first Catholic to be nominated for president by a major party when he ran in the 1928 presidential election. Smith's candidacy was significant as it marked a shift in American politics, highlighting the growing influence of urban and immigrant voters. Although he lost the election to Herbert Hoover, his campaign helped pave the way for future Democratic leaders and the eventual rise of the New Deal.