Name: James Washington-Ward
Born: Bronx, New York
Occupation: Chaplain
Political Party: Conservative
Position: District Leader, 83rd Assembly District
Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, James Washington-Ward learned early the values of perseverance, humility, and faith. Though his life’s path took him through different cities — including a formative chapter in Philadelphia — the Bronx remained his anchor, the place that shaped his purpose and his mission.
Today, James serves as a Chaplain and District Leader for the 83rd Assembly District, a role that allows him to bridge faith and politics in one of America’s most diverse cities. His rise has been anything but ordinary — a journey of conviction, service, and rediscovery.
So, what makes James a conservative? For him, conservatism isn’t a label — it’s a belief system rooted in personal responsibility and moral clarity. He stands firmly on the traditional family structure, the right to bear arms, and the conviction that freedom must always come with accountability.
He supports a safety net within capitalism but draws a clear line against long-term dependency. “A safety net should be a bridge, not a home,” James often says — a reminder that compassion and discipline can, and should, coexist.
Much of James’s work happens quietly — away from cameras or campaign stages. He volunteers tirelessly, serving youth, veterans, the homeless, and struggling families throughout the Bronx. His compassion is practical, rooted not in slogans but in hands-on service.
His life’s mission is to uplift, not divide — a guiding principle that runs through both his ministry and his politics.
Ironically, James’s journey into conservatism began on the other side of the political spectrum. Like many Americans, he was inspired by Barack Obama’s historic 2008 campaign — believing it would spark a new era of unity and progress.
But over time, he saw that the promises of “hope and change” didn’t always reach the neighborhoods that needed them most.
“The promises didn’t match the progress,” he recalls. That realization became the turning point — the moment when James began questioning not just policies, but the underlying philosophies behind them.
When his close circle became active in the local Conservative Party, James knew it was time to do more than observe — it was time to act. With encouragement from his peers, he made the leap.
In 2024, he didn’t just vote — he ran. As a candidate for New York City Council, District 12, James Washington-Ward put his name, his faith, and his values on the line. Though he didn’t win the seat, he emerged with something even greater — clarity, resilience, and purpose.
“The campaign taught me who I am,” he reflects. “And that’s just the beginning.”
Looking ahead, James hopes to help strengthen representation within the movement.
He has expressed a desire to form a Black Conservative Caucus — not to divide, but to add more voices to the conversation.
“Our county already has many young Black conservatives,” he says. “We just need to bring more to the table — not separating, but expanding.”
His vision is to show that the Conservative Party is not exclusive but inclusive, welcoming those who share its values of faith, family, freedom, and service — regardless of background.
For James, this isn’t about politics. It’s about legacy — building a generation of leaders who understand that strength and compassion can walk hand in hand.