James C. Kirkpatrick (June 15, 1905 – December 26, 1997) was an American politician from Missouri, United States.

He started his newspaper career at The Daily Star-Journal in Warrensburg and rose to be its editor.

Kirkpatrick was a publisher by trade; the Northwest Missouri Press Association gives an annual award bearing his name.

Numerous public facilities in Missouri have been named in Kirkpatrick's honor.

The Student Government Association at the University of Central Missouri has established the "James C. Kirkpatrick Excellence in Governance Award" for outstanding public service and the promotion of higher education in Missouri.