James Todd Rutherford, born on October 10, 1970, hails from Columbia, South Carolina. He is an American politician and a dedicated Democratic member of the South Carolina House of Representatives, representing the 74th District since 1999. Notably, Rutherford also holds the position of Minority Leader in the House.1
Early Life and Education:
- Graduated from W.J. Keenan High School in 1988.
- Earned his bachelor’s degree from Howard University in 1992.
- Worked as a Legislative Assistant to Congressman Robin Tallon.
- Obtained his Juris Doctor degree from the University of South Carolina School of Law in 1996.
Legal Career:
- After passing the bar, Rutherford worked as an Assistant Solicitor and Special Prosecutor of Narcotic and Drug Cases in the Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office.
- In 1998, he founded the Rutherford Law Firm, where he continues to represent South Carolinians in criminal cases, accidents, workers’ compensation, and medical malpractice matters.
South Carolina General Assembly:
- Elected to the South Carolina General Assembly in 1998, representing House District 74.
- Initially served on the Military, Medical, and Municipal Affairs Committee.
- Later joined the Judiciary Committee in 2002.
- Currently serves on the Ways and Means Committee and the Ethics Committee.
- In 2013, Rutherford was elected Minority Leader.
- He was named Young Democrat of the year in 1999.
- Advocated for the removal of the Confederate battle flag, which was successfully achieved in June 2015 with the overwhelming support of the House Democratic Caucus.
- A leading proponent of medical marijuana legislation in the South Carolina General Assembly.
Representative Rutherford’s commitment to public service and his advocacy for important causes have left a lasting impact on South Carolina’s political landscape.
