James C. Fields facts for kids

James C. Fields Jr. is an American public servant and a minister. He served in the Alabama House of Representatives from 2008 to 2010. James Fields grew up in Colony, Alabama. He was the first African American person to run for an elected position in Cullman County, Alabama, which is mostly white.

Early Life and Learning

James Fields grew up on his family's small farm in Colony. After finishing Hanceville High School, he went to Jacksonville State University. There, he earned a bachelor's degree in law enforcement.

Serving His Country

After college, James Fields joined the U.S. Marines. He attended officer training at the Marine Corps Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He left the Marines with an honorable discharge.

A Voice in Alabama's Government

James Fields was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives as a Democratic member. This happened in a special election on January 29, 2008. He served until 2010. In the 2010 election, he was not re-elected. Another minister, Mac Buttram, won that election.

Life Outside of Politics

James Fields is married to Yvette Fields. They have seven children and 13 grandchildren.

For almost 30 years, James Fields has worked for the Alabama Department of Industrial Relations. He is also a minister at St. James United Methodist Church in Irondale, Alabama.

Running for Lieutenant Governor

In November 2013, James Fields announced he would run for Lieutenant Governor of Alabama. This was for the 2014 elections. He was the only Democratic candidate in the primary election. However, he was defeated by the Republican Lieutenant Governor, Kay Ivey, in the main election.

More Information

• Fields for Lieutenant Governor