Helm was re-elected to the state House in 1827 and 1830, and was re-elected every year from 1833 to 1837.[3] He served as Speaker of the House in 1835 and 1836.[3] In 1837 there was a three-way race for speaker between Helm, James Turner Morehead and Robert P. Letcher.[16] After nine ballots Helm withdrew, and Letcher was elected speaker.[16]