Luther Ernest Barnhardt (November 29, 1903 – June 1, 1980) was an American politician who served as the 23rd lieutenant governor of North Carolina from 1957 to 1961 under Governor Luther H. Hodges.

Luther E. Barnhardt
23rd Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina
In office 1957 – January 5, 1961
Governor	Luther H. Hodges
Preceded by	Luther H. Hodges
Succeeded by	Harvey Cloyd Philpott
Member of the North Carolina Senate from the 21st District
In office 1945–1956 Serving with Nelson Woodson
Personal details
Born	November 29, 1903 Concord, North Carolina
Died	June 1, 1980 (1980-07) (aged 76)

Barnhardt was born in Concord, North Carolina, November 29, 1903. He was an attorney and a member of the North Carolina Senate (1945–56). Barnhardt was elected lieutenant governor in 1956 and, by the state constitution of that time, was not eligible for re-election. Barnhardt died June 1, 1980, and is buried at Carolina Memorial Park, Concord, North Carolina.