Elected in 1998 as a Member of Parliament for the former Warwick West Constituency, Elvin was born and raised in Warwick and has maintained strong roots in the community.

Educated at Purvis Primary and Howard Academy, Elvin went to further his education by earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education and Psychology from Atlantic Union College and a Master's Degree in Business Management from Webster University.

Elvin has a background in education, sports, administration, and youth programmes, and served Bermuda as a teacher at both Bermuda Institute and Elliott Primary. After leaving the school system, Elvin became the manager of the Vocational Education Programme for the prison system. He also had an extensive career with the Shell Company of Bermuda as Personnel and Sales Manager.

A well known and recognized local figure, Elvin would act as a strong advocate for his constituency by promoting locally organized community based programmes. While education remains a personal and national concern, he advocates the need for after-school and tutorial programs while offering parents a safe and suitable environment for their children. He also believes that communities such as Warwick North Central would benefit from local employment programmes that would aide in addressing many of the anti-social activities by promoting positive alternatives with proven results.

Elvin James has served as Chairman of both the Consolidated Board of Government Golf Courses and the Public Vehicle Licensing Board. He is also a former President of the Bermuda Cricket Board as well as the Warwick Workman's Club.

Elvin is the proud father of two dedicated public school teachers, Xavier James and Zonique Swainson.