James D. Johnson

James Douglas Johnson (August 20, 1924 February 13, 2010), known as "Justice Jim" Johnson, was an Arkansas legislator and jurist known for outspoken support of racial segregation during the mid-20th century. He served as an associate justice of the Arkansas Supreme Court from 1959 to 1966, and in the Arkansas Senate from 1951 to 1957. Johnson unsuccessfully sought several elected positions, including Governor of Arkansas in 1956 and 1966, and the United States Senate in 1968. A segregationist, Johnson was frequently compared to George Wallace of Alabama. He joined the Republican Party in 1983.

James Douglas Johnson
Associate Justice of the
Arkansas Supreme Court
In office
1959–1966
Preceded byWilliam J. Smith
Succeeded byGuy Amsler
Member of the Arkansas Senate
from the Twenty-second district
In office
January 12, 1953  1957
Preceded by(redistricting)
Succeeded byGaither C. Johnston
ConstituencyAshley and Chicot counties
Member of the Arkansas Senate
from the Twenty-seventh district
In office
January 8, 1951  January 12, 1953
Preceded byOhmer C. Burnside
Succeeded by(redistricting)
ConstituencyAshley and Chicot counties
Personal details
Born(1924-08-20)August 20, 1924
Crossett, Arkansas, U.S.
DiedFebruary 13, 2010(2010-02-13) (aged 85)
Conway, Arkansas, U.S.
Political partyDemocratic (1950–80)
Independent (1980–83)
Republican (1983–2010)
Spouse
Virginia Lillian Morris Johnson
(m. 1947; died 2007)
ChildrenMark Johnson
John David Johnson
Joseph Daniel Johnson
EducationCumberland University
OccupationAttorney, politician
Military service
Allegiance United States
Branch/serviceUnited States Marine Corps
Years of service1942
Rank Corporal
Battles/warsWorld War II
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