Jack Murphy graduated from the University of Utah and served in the United States Army during World War II. He became a lawyer in Lincoln County, Idaho, and was elected to the Idaho Senate, serving from 1952 to 1966. Murphy was elected as the Republican lieutenant governor of Idaho in 1966 and re-elected in 1970, overseeing transitions in gubernatorial administrations. He ran as the Republican nominee for governor in 1974 but was unsuccessful. Additionally, Murphy contributed to education policy as a member of the board of regents of the Idaho State Department of Education.

Jack Murphy's political career reveals a deeply rooted commitment to regional interests, particularly in Idaho. His legislative tenure and service on the board of regents of the Idaho State Department of Education suggest a focus on local governance and education. His unexpected alignments on environmental regulations hint at a nuanced approach to policy-making, balancing broader ideological commitments with localized concerns.