James was born in Morristown, New Jersey, and moved with his parents to Hancock, Michigan, in 1876, where he attended the public schools.

James was treasurer of Houghton County, Michigan, 1900–1904, and engaged in the real estate and insurance business.

He served as a private in Company F of the Thirty-fourth Regiment, Michigan Volunteer Infantry, during the Spanish–American War.

In 1914, James defeated incumbent Democrat William J. MacDonald to be elected as a Republican from Michigan's 12th congressional district to the 64th United States Congress.

He was an unsuccessful candidate for reelection in 1934 and 1936, losing both times to Democrat Frank E. Hook in the general election.