Interview with Sylvester “Sly” James, a native of Kansas City, took the oath of office as the city’s 56th Mayor in 2011 and was re-elected in 2015. Before his political career, he served as a military police officer in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.
James, a successful lawyer before entering politics, has been President of the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association and has been a leader on various other boards and commissions.
As Mayor, James introduced the “4 E Agenda” focusing on Education, Employment, Efficiency, and Enforcement. He has worked tirelessly to elevate Kansas City’s profile at the state and national levels. He has advocated for sensible gun control laws, a raise in the minimum wage, and the expansion of high-quality education at the state level. James has also held leadership roles in several national mayoral organizations.
Since 1981, James has been happily married to Licia Clifton-James, Ph.D., and is the proud father of four children: Eric (deceased), Malik, Kyle, and Aja. e proud father of four children: Eric (deceased), Malik, Kyle, and Aja.
