Mississippi officials hint at gubernatorial bids, focus on redistricting at Neshoba County Fair
NESHOBA COUNTY, Miss. — Gubernatorial ambitions were on display Wednesday as Mississippi officials delivered speeches at the Neshoba County Fair amid a rainy summer day. Attorney General Lynn Fitch, a Republican, said she will soon announce her political future. Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, who is term-limited, indicated he may run for governor and emphasized his focus on redistricting.
Fitch, who could seek a third term as attorney general, said she is encouraged by support across the state and plans to disclose her intentions soon. She told the crowd, “I’m excited about next steps,” and highlighted recent state achievements, including improvements in elementary reading scores and economic development. Fitch also discussed her office’s efforts cracking down on illegal drug rings and Medicaid fraud.
She addressed the landmark Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, which overturned nationwide abortion rights and led to Mississippi’s strict abortion laws. Fitch said Mississippi showed the world how to make legal history and promote life. After her speech, Fitch faced questions about her stance on empowering women, which she did not fully answer, stating her goal is to protect women and children.
Meanwhile, Hosemann focused on the legislative session, mentioning a $2,000 teacher pay raise, infrastructure investments, and a ban on the abortion drug misoprostol. He also confirmed that redistricting is a priority, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais ruling, which allowed states to eliminate majority-Black districts. Hosemann said, “We’re going to redistrict Mississippi,” and announced the creation of a Senate committee to study the issue.
Hosemann indicated that the Legislature might revert to the 2022 maps, which could undo recent gains made by Democrats. He dismissed concerns about diluting Black political power, citing the Callais decision that prohibits race considerations in map drawing. When asked if he aimed to target Rep. Bennie Thompson, Mississippi’s only Black congressman, Hosemann said he was not focused on individual politicians.
Other potential gubernatorial candidates, including former House Speaker Philip Gunn and Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson, were also present. Gunn emphasized his legislative experience, while Gipson is scheduled to speak Thursday. State Treasurer David McRae announced Wednesday he will run for a third term, after some speculated he might seek higher office.
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