James was born and raised in the constituency of Brecon and Radnorshire. Brought up on the family farm, James has a passion for the outdoors and agriculture, giving him a valuable insight into the current pressures on the agricultural community and rural way of life. James’ teenage years were spent in the Young Farmers, where he learnt essential life skills, public speaking, networking across the world and made friends for life!
James' career to date does not follow the conventional route. His route into politics involved campaigning to save his local High School Gwernyfed from closure. Success led him onto becoming a County Councillor for Gwernyfed Ward in 2017 and later becoming a Cabinet Member in Powys County Council. This gave James an amazing opportunity to learn on the job and many of the lessons learnt and experiences gained now hold him in good stead in the Senedd. James' route in politics was via the 'University of Life' rather than following the conventional academic route. He champions apprenticeships and on the job learning as a viable alternative to academia.
In May 2021, James was elected to the Senedd/Welsh Parliament as a Member Brecon and Radnorshire, winning the seat from the Welsh Liberal Democrats. The first Welsh Conservative MS for this constituency, he is currently the Shadow Minister for Health & Social Care, having previously held the portfolios of Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs and Shadow Minister for Mental Health, Wellbeing and Mid Wales. He also sits on the Health & Social Care Committee. Welsh Labour have controlled our healthcare for over 25 years, and at a time when many feel the system is broken and failing the people of Wales, James is keen to hold the Government to account to improve health outcomes for everyone across Wales.
James is passionate about achieving the very best for this area, the place he calls home. A keen rugby player, he's proud to have captained the second team with Gwernyfed Rugby Club. A recent knee injury means his playing days are now over, but he is still heavily involved in the Club and helping out the Team. An avid darts player and supporter, he has established a darts team in Gwernyfed for young players. James loves being active whether that is playing golf, cycling or walking his beloved dog Bonnie.
A passionate Conservative, championing the fantastic communities across Brecon and Radnorshire, James is committed to improving the lives of residents through politics. Over the past ten years he has campaigned far and wide, from Ystradgynlais in the South, Presteigne in the East, Llandrindod Wells in the North down to Crickhowell in the South. With the new constituency boundary in 2026, this will get even bigger!