Jack Davis holds a bachelor's degree in industrial engineering from the University of Buffalo School of Engineering. He began his career in engineering at General Motors and later transitioned to sales engineering at The Carborundum Company. Davis served in the United States Coast Guard and has a history of switching political affiliations, starting as a "Goldwater Republican," then joining the Democratic Party, supporting a Republican nominee, and finally running as a Tea Party candidate. He has a large family, with six children, 16 grandchildren, and 22 great-grandchildren.

Jack Davis's political journey is marked by ideological fluidity, beginning as a "Goldwater Republican" before switching to the Democratic Party over free trade disagreements. His unexpected support for a Republican nominee in 2008, followed by a Tea Party run in 2011, reveals a highly localized approach to policy that prioritizes regional economic interests over party loyalty. Davis's legislative funding for the University of Buffalo's Barbara and Jack Davis Hall further highlights his commitment to local educational initiatives. This strategic oscillation between parties and factions prompts questions about the underlying principles guiding his policy decisions.