State Representative Edward “Ted” James’ was first elected in 2011, he represents East Baton Rouge Parish District 101. After graduating from the historic McKinley Sr. High School, he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Southern University and graduated from Southern University’s Law Center.
In 2006, Ted passed the Louisiana Bar Exam; however, instead of pursuing a traditional legal career, he dedicated himself to the recovery and rebuilding of Louisiana in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina & Rita. He was able to secure a twenty-five million dollar investment into Louisiana Housing through his role as the Governor’s policy advisor on housing and community development.
After working for the governor, he was appointed to serve as Special Counsel to the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Revenue, where he developed the department’s legislative strategy. His leadership in this role led to an appointment by Governor Bobby Jindal to serve on the Louisiana Advisory Commission on Inter-government-Tal Relations where he focused on greater communication and cohesion between agencies to further the well-being of Louisiana and its citizens.
Ted’s passion for leadership is driven by a deeply held desire to impact the lives of others while transforming the community he calls “his village”. A Baton Rouge native who was taught at an early age the value of service, the strength of community, the importance of a quality education, and the principles of social justice.
He has a record of dedicated community service through his work with a number of causes- including mentoring students in Baton Rouge area schools, serving on the Board of Directors for the YMCA Capital Area, and as a committee member of Baton Rouge RECreation & Parks.
Ted is married to Veronica Michelle James and they are members of Beacon Light Church of Baton Rouge.