J. Alfred Taylor was born in 1878 near Ironton, Ohio, and completed his primary education in Ironton public schools. He began his career in the newspaper business in West Virginia and later served in the West Virginia National Guard. Taylor held multiple terms in the West Virginia House of Delegates, including a period as Speaker, and represented West Virginia's 6th District in the U.S. House of Representatives. He also served on the West Virginia Liquor Commission and the Fayette County Board of Education.

J. Alfred Taylor's political identity is marked by a distinctive blend of local advocacy and regulatory engagement. His legislative efforts consistently supported local businesses and the newspaper industry, revealing a highly localized approach to economic policy. Taylor's tenure on the West Virginia Liquor Commission showcases an unusual intersection of regulatory oversight and industry support. His commitment to public education, evidenced by his role on the Fayette County Board of Education, adds another layer to his multifaceted policy stances.