Philip Gunn launches campaign for Mississippi governor

Philip Gunn, a former speaker of the Mississippi House, officially entered the race for governor Tuesday, citing plans to boost economic growth and improve social and education policies. Gunn announced his campaign at the Clinton Visitors Center, drawing a crowd of about 100 supporters.

Gunn outlined a platform focused on reducing taxes, including property and grocery taxes, to ease the burden on residents. He emphasized attracting businesses that offer good-paying jobs and keeping young families in Mississippi by providing affordable health care.

Supporters, including Mississippi College students, expressed enthusiasm for Gunn’s focus on keeping young people in the state. Student Grey Thompson praised Gunn’s stance on health care and economic development, while fellow students Grant McNally and Marco Pineda said they support his vision for Mississippi’s future.

Gunn, who served as the first Republican speaker of the Mississippi House since Reconstruction, highlighted accomplishments during his tenure, such as improving the state’s education ranking and passing legislation on religious rights and human trafficking. He maintains a campaign war chest of nearly $600,000, with other candidates reporting varying levels of funding, including Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and Attorney General Lynn Fitch.

He joins a potentially crowded field for the 2027 gubernatorial race, as current Gov. Tate Reeves is term-limited. Other candidates rumored to run include Agriculture and Commerce Commissioner Andy Gipson and businessman Tommy Duff, among others.

Gunn, who was elected to the House in 2004, served as speaker for 12 years and is recognized for leading efforts that improved Mississippi’s education system and enacted policies on religious rights and state symbols. He concluded his campaign announcement by expressing optimism about Mississippi’s future and his readiness to lead the state forward.

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