Mississippi News

Special elections Nov. 3 to fill Mississippi House Districts 70 and 77

Voters in two Mississippi state House districts will choose representatives for the remainder of the current terms on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, Magnolia Tribune reported on Oct. 30, 2026.

According to the Magnolia Tribune, the special elections — which are nonpartisan — will fill the seats formerly held by the late State Rep. Price Wallace (R) and the late State Rep. William “Bo” Brown (D). Both lawmakers died less than a week apart.

House District 77 (Rankin and Simpson counties): The Magnolia Tribune lists four candidates who qualified to fill Wallace’s term.

Christopher Dunn: Reported as the chief financial officer for Vestra Revenue Management with more than 20 years in banking. The Tribune says Dunn describes himself as a conservative who emphasizes faith, family and fiscal responsibility and wants to make Mississippi more business friendly while focusing on improving health care.

Dianne Gaddis: Identified as the owner of 3 Girls Trucking and 3 Girls Trucking Academy. The Tribune says Gaddis has voiced support for expanding career and technical education, food security, increased childcare options and investment in infrastructure.

Melissa Sullivan: Reported to have more than 30 years in health care. The Tribune says Sullivan identifies as a conservative Republican who supports strengthening gun rights, providing tax relief for Mississippians including those in agriculture, and bringing more health-care options to rural areas.

Craig Williams: Described as a farmer, owner of Wildcat Creek Shooting Preserve and a former law enforcement officer. The Tribune says Williams supports increased pay for first responders, reducing the tax burden on small businesses and investing in infrastructure improvements.

House District 70 (Hinds County): The Magnolia Tribune lists three candidates who qualified to succeed Brown.

Imelda Brown: Reported as the wife of Bo Brown and an employee of the Jackson Public School system; she is a Tennessee State University graduate. The Tribune says she opposes school choice and favors continued investment in public education.

Marcus Cheatham: Identified as a 31-year U.S. Army veteran who ran for Jackson City Council in 2025. The Tribune says Cheatham supports infrastructure investments, economic development and strengthening public schools.

James Lott III: Reported as a Canton alderman, Air National Guard veteran and director of student recreation at Hinds Community College. The Tribune says Lott supports data center development and continued investment in public education.

The Magnolia Tribune reported that the winners of the two special elections will complete the current terms, which end in January 2028.

Source: Magnolia Tribune

Jon Ross Myers

Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com