James Buchanan (June 17, 1839 – October 30, 1900) was an American Republican Party politician who represented New Jersey's 2nd congressional district in the United States House of Representatives from 1885 to 1893.

Born in the Ringoes section of East Amwell Township, New Jersey, Buchanan attended the public schools and Clinton Academy.

He was appointed a member of the board of trustees of Peddie Institute, Hightstown, New Jersey, in 1875.

He served as chairman of the Committee on Manufactures in the Fifty-first Congress.

Buchanan was elected city solicitor of Trenton May 7, 1900, and served until his death.