James Ernest Wharton (October 4, 1899 – January 19, 1990) was an American attorney and politician.

[4] During World War I, Wharton joined the Student Army Training Corps.

[5] He enlisted as a private in October 1918, and was discharged in December, following the Armistice of 11 November 1918 that ended the war.

[7] In 1960, his Democratic opponent was Gore Vidal, whom Wharton defeated to win a fifth term.

[8] After leaving Congress, Wharton resumed the practice of law and became involved in real estate development.