John Paul Harris (December 4, 1871 – January 26, 1926) was a Pittsburgh businessman and politician who opened the world's first theater devoted entirely to showing Motion pictures.

[4] In addition to owning theaters, Harris held shares in two National League baseball clubs.

[6][2] In 1922, Harris was elected to represent the 45th District in the Pennsylvania State Senate to fill the unexpired term caused by the death of Norman Whitten.

Although the two had many differing views, Harris supported Pinchot's efforts to enforce prohibition and enact election reform.

On January 26, 1926, Harris suffered a heart attack during a legislative hearing on election reform bills.