Who is James?

James is a problem solver with the solid real world experience we need in Congress.  He’s a proven leader:  bold, innovative, and he knows what it takes to create prosperity and jobs.  He's the only guy running that has actually cut federal jobs AND created new private sector jobs.

His Dad served his country as a fighter pilot. His Mom was a code breaker during World War II.  At 17, James struck out for Alaska, where he worked first as a certified mechanic, and then at a community bank. By the time he was 22, he was managing a rural bank with $40m in assets. He later was selected as a Wolcott Fellow at George Washington University, and earned his MBA while working in Washington DC helping small, local banks deal with Congress, federal agencies, and the critical issues facing small business.

In 1991 James went to work at the FDIC as a troubleshooter. As a result of the Savings and Loan debacle of the 1980’s, he saw firsthand the consequences of exposing the taxpayer to the risky behavior of speculators. As the S&L crisis was resolved, he had the unique experience of working with the FDIC's executive management to shrink the FDIC to pre-crisis levels - actually dialing back government spending. In 1995, James returned to the private sector in major roles at successful, cutting edge technology firms working with innovative startups. In 2003 James joined Microsoft, managing a new product for small businesses--- a retail oriented technology system to give local businesses the technology they need to compete against the big box stores.  Today, he continues helping small businesses in this tough economic climate as a business development consultant.  In the past fifteen years, James has had the privilege of working with literally thousands of small businesses in all 50 states.

James is an NRA Life Member, certified firearms safety instructor, and certified cave diver. He loves coaching youth sports, including baseball, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse. He is a member of the Cascade Bicycle Club, and is an avid cyclist and motorcyclist. 

James is married to Ashley and they have two children. They are active members of their Church and community, and live in Redmond, Washington.