James Thorsteinson was elected as the MLA for Cut Knife-Turtleford in 2024. He currently serves on the Treasury Board and as Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture. He is also a member of the Crown and Central Agencies Committee and Deputy Chair of the Public Accounts Committee.

A third-generation rancher, James has spent most of his life working in the agricultural sector, with additional experience in contract work in the oilfield.

A long-time 4-H member, James enjoys giving back to the program by volunteering as a judge at local Achievement Days and public speaking events. A strong advocate for mental health, he has served on the board of the Libbie Young Center in Lloydminster, which provides housing, programming, and education for people experiencing mental health challenges.

James and his wife reside on their cattle ranch north of Maidstone and have three sons.