James David Longest, known on-air as David James, is a journalist and broadcaster honored with induction into the Indiana Broadcasters Hall of Fame. With a career spanning more than four decades, he served as the evening anchor and managing editor at WFIE-TV in Evansville, IN, covering major national and international stories. Even after retirement, he continues contributing to journalism as the host of Two Main Street, a weekly radio interview program on WNIN-FM in Evansville.
Born and raised in Evansville, Indiana, David’s journalism journey began at Bosse High School, where he wrote and edited for the school newspaper and yearbook. He went on to study at the University of Evansville, where he served as editor of The Crescent, the school’s weekly newspaper. He earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a Master’s in Humanities while working evenings writing obituaries for The Evansville Courier and contributing features to The Evansville Sunday Courier and Press.
After graduation, David covered education and police beats for The Evansville Sunday Courier and Press before transitioning to radio as a reporter-anchor at WGBF-AM. In late 1973, he joined WFIE-TV, quickly rising to become the main evening anchor in 1974 at just 25 years old. His career-defining moment came when he covered the tragic University of Evansville plane crash.
Over his 41-year tenure at WFIE-TV, David’s work took him to the White House, United Nations, and multiple international locations. He also moderated several high-profile political debates and was a longtime presence on the Jerry Lewis MDA telethon in Evansville. Beyond journalism, he has served on various community boards and committees.
Despite decades in the field, David remains passionate about storytelling, advising young journalists to stay curious and explore all perspectives. His dedication to journalism and community engagement continues through his work at WNIN-FM, proving his lasting impact on the industry.
