Harry Schwartz began his career in journalism before transitioning to law. He was admitted to the bar in 1895 and practiced law in Sioux Falls. Schwartz spent over a decade in various roles within the United States General Land Office, culminating in a leadership position in Washington, D.C. He also served in the South Dakota House of Representatives and later moved to Wyoming, where he held educational leadership roles and served in the Wyoming State Senate. Throughout his career, Schwartz demonstrated a commitment to public service and legal expertise.

Harry Schwartz's political identity is marked by a blend of regional pragmatism and ideological steadfastness, particularly in land management and education. His career trajectory, from a newspaperman to a key figure in land policy, suggests a unique ability to navigate and influence bureaucratic landscapes. Schwartz's educational leadership roles hint at a commitment to local governance, yet his involvement in national land offices reveals a broader, more strategic vision. His legislative record shows an unexpected convergence with opposing factions on environmental regulations, revealing a highly calculated approach to protecting regional industrial interests.