Jim Butterworth (politician)

Early life and education

Butterworth is a graduate of the University of Georgia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in political science, and was active in Air Force ROTC. He was named "AFROTC Cadet of the Year" two of his four years at Georgia.

Early career

Mr. Butterworth was appointed by Governor Deal to Adjutant General and promoted to the State Rank of Lieutenant General. Prior to his appointed the highest rank he attained was Captain. He was never recognized by the U.S. Air Force as a General Officer. During his time as adjutant general, Butterworth had complaints filed against him. One complaint was substantiated for improperly using Blackhawk helicopters to deliver a game ball to his former high school. Butterworth was forced to reimburse the government for the use of the helicopter. In April 2015, the State of Georgia settled a whistleblower lawsuit filed against him.

Political career

Butterworth was the Chairman of the Habersham County, Georgia Commission and unseated an incumbent to win a Senate seat in the 50th District of the Georgia State Senate until his appointment to adjutant general in 2011. He served in that position until he took over in January 2015 for outgoing Director Charley English.

Memberships

Butterworth has served as an executive board member of several organizations, including the Georgia Mountains Regional Development Center, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs All hazard Council and the Georgia DCA Regional Advisory Committee.