ABOUT JAMES TORRENCE

James believes systemic change requires principled leadership, collaboration, and a commitment to protecting vulnerable communities. As Councilman for Baltimore’s 7th District, he delivers results through policy, oversight, and community-driven solutions. He serves as Chair of the Housing and Economic Development Committee and is an active member of multiple standing committees.

During his time on the Council, James has advanced key initiatives to strengthen neighborhoods and expand opportunity. He authored legislation establishing Baltimore’s first Office of Returning Citizens, championed the creation of a land bank to address vacant housing, and led efforts to curb illegal dumping and improve city service accountability. He has also pushed protections against predatory real estate practices and supported equitable development in historically disinvested communities.

James has prioritized investments in youth and community infrastructure, securing improvements to libraries, parks and recreation centers. He has also led efforts to direct resources into historically redlined communities, expanding access to healthy food and addressing primary care deserts. He continues to champion evidence-based violence reduction, consumer protections and improved service delivery across the city.

A Baltimore native raised in public housing, James has been committed to service since age 13, when he advocated for improved conditions at Carver Voc-Tech. He later taught civic engagement through the YMCA and served as Student Government Association Vice President at Towson University, where he advocated for first-generation college students.

James has held roles across local and federal government, including Legislative Aide and Interim Chief of Staff to State Senator Verna Jones-Rodwell, CEO Graduate Fellow with Baltimore City Public Schools and staff with the U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. He now serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Baltimore.

James holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law; Master of Science in Negotiation and Conflict Management from the University of Baltimore; and Dual Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Communication Studies from Towson University.

James and his wife, Orlett, are raising their son and daughter in the Ashburton neighborhood of Northwest Baltimore.