James Roberson holds a BA in Communications from Shaw University and an MLS from North Carolina Central University. He began his career in public service, elected to the Knightdale Town Council in 2007, where he served two terms. Roberson then became Mayor of Knightdale, North Carolina, from 2015 to 2021, during which he also held a significant role at Wake Tech Community College, culminating in his position as Sr. Dean, Instructional Support and Chief Campus Officer of the Western Wake Campus. Roberson retired from Wake Tech in 2021 and was appointed to the North Carolina House of Representatives for the 39th House District by Governor Roy Cooper. He was recognized with the “Order of The Long Leaf Pine” for thirty-one years of dedicated service.

James Roberson's political identity is marked by an ideologically agile approach that blends progressive sustainability initiatives with pragmatic economic development. His legislative record reveals a surprising alignment with conservative factions on certain environmental regulations, suggesting a calculated strategy to safeguard regional industrial interests. Roberson's rhetoric emphasizes community partnerships and public-private collaboration, often framing issues in a way that underscores local benefits over broader ideological battles. His policy stances, particularly in education and clean energy, exhibit a unique blend of forward-thinking initiatives with a focus on immediate, tangible outcomes. Roberson's career trajectory, from education administration to local governance, further underscores a deeply rooted commitment to community-centric policies.