James Joseph Hughes (August 15, 1856 – March 5, 1941) was a Canadian politician.

Born in St. Mary's Road, Prince Edward Island, Hughes was the son of Irish parents.

He was educated at the Log School House in St. Mary's Road and was a graduate of St. Dunstan's College in Charlottetown.

In 1925, he was summoned the Senate of Canada representing the senatorial division of King's, Prince Edward Island on the advice of Prime Minister Mackenzie King.

His son, William Hughes was a cabinet minister on PEI.