David James is a proud Louisville native whose lifelong commitment to community service, public safety, and leadership has shaped his distinguished career.
In 1984, David began his career in law enforcement with the Louisville Police Department, where he made history as the first African American officer to be named Rookie of the Year. His dedication to service also extended to the United States Army Reserves, where he served from 1983 to 1989 as a Military Intelligence Specialist with “Top Secret” clearance—responsible for gathering intelligence and assessing the combat readiness of military units.
From 2004 to 2007, David served as Commissioner of the Kentucky Bureau of Investigation, the investigative arm of the Kentucky Attorney General's Office. His passion for public service later led him to elected office. On November 2, 2010, he was elected to represent Louisville Metro Council's Sixth District.
David's leadership earned him multiple terms in key roles on the Council. He served two terms as Majority Leader, a position that elevated him to President Pro Tem of the Metro Council and Chair of the 17-member Democratic Caucus. In 2022, he was elected to his fifth term as President of the Metro Council.
In 2023, David was appointed Deputy Mayor for Emergency Services for Metro Louisville. The following year, in April 2024, he assumed additional responsibilities as Statutory Deputy Mayor. In October 2025, David made history once again when he succeeded longtime Sheriff John Aubrey to become the first African American Sheriff of Jefferson County.
Beyond his public service, David has also broken barriers in civic life, becoming the first African American admitted to both his Masonic Lodge and the Kosair Shriners.
David married his sweetheart, Michelle, on July 9, 2011, at the Old Louisville Women's Club. Together, they share two daughters, two sons-in-law, and three grandchildren. They reside in historic Old Louisville, where they enjoy long walks with their dog, Cooper.