John R. Needham (December 18, 1824 – July 9, 1868) was an American Republican politician, lawyer, and newspaper editor.
Born in Washington Court House, Ohio, Needham studied law and was admitted to the bar in Ohio.
[1] He served in the Iowa State Senate beginning in 1852.
In 1857 Needham was nominated by the Republicans for member of the convention to frame a new Constitution but declined the position, and then was elected Lieutenant Governor between 1862 and 1864, serving under Governor Samuel J. Kirkwood.
In 1867, Needham was again elected to the Iowa Senate but died in office.