Edward “Ted” James is the Founder of Ted James Strategies, LLC and serves as Of Counsel with Doran & Cawthorne, PPLC. Ted James Strategies is a full-service government relations firm providing comprehensive services in lobbying, government relations, business consulting, and legislative strategy—helping businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations navigate complex challenges.

Ted brings more than 20 years of experience in law, government, and public service. In 2021, President Joe Biden appointed him Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s South Central Region, where he oversaw SBA services across five states, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses with critical federal resources.

Previously, Ted served three terms in the Louisiana Legislature, where he rose to leadership as Chairman of the Administration of Criminal Justice Committee and Chairman of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus. Over more than a decade of service, he authored 160 bills, with 56 signed into law—including landmark criminal justice reforms, expansion of the state’s medical marijuana program, and the creation of LA Wallet, the nation’s first digital driver’s license app. Trusted by both Democratic and Republican leaders, he was repeatedly appointed to key roles across party lines.

Beyond elected office, Ted has served as Policy Advisor to Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, Director of the Urban League of Louisiana’s Baton Rouge office, and as an adjunct law professor at his alma mater, Southern University. 

Nationally recognized for his leadership, Ted’s honors include the Baton Rouge Business Report’s Forty Under 40, the NAACP’s Top 40 Power Players under 40, and the National Bar Association’s Nation’s Best Advocates: 40 Lawyers Under 40. Above all, he is most proud of being the father to his daughter, Harper Ryan James.