James Evans
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Chair of the Utah Republican Party | |
In office 2013–2017 | |
Preceded by | Thomas Wright |
Succeeded by | Rob Anderson |
Member of the Utah State Senate from the 1st district | |
In office 2002–2004 | |
Succeeded by | Fred J. Fife |
Personal details | |
Born | 1962 (age 61–62) Orangeburg, South Carolina, U.S. |
Political party | Republican |
Alma mater | Tuskegee University (BS) |
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James Evans is an American political executive and businessman who served as Chair of the Utah Republican Party from 2013 to 2017, the first African-American to serve in the role.[1][2] Evans previously served as the first African-American Utah State Senator.[1]
Evans was born and raised in Orangeburg, South Carolina. He graduated from Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from Tuskegee University.[3]
Evans served in the United States Air Force, reaching the rank of captain.[4] He owned a payday lending franchise called Chekline.[2] Evans served as a member of the Utah State Senate from 2002 to 2004, representing the 1st district.[5]
After serving as Chair of the Utah Republican Party for four years, Evans was defeated for re-appointment and succeeded by Rob Anderson.[6] Evans had faced mounting pressure to resign amid a lawsuit against his business and growing financial debts.[7]
State chairs of the Republican Party
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Federal districts: Territories: | |