I want to honor my 90-year-old father, a true warrior for justice and working people. He’s been a trailblazer in the labor movement and grassroots politics, likely helping more people get elected in Mississippi than anyone else. Growing up, whenever we complained, he'd tell us, "do something about it!"—so, Dad, you share the blame for why we’re here today.

 

A special thanks goes to my queen and partner of 34 years, Lydia Gail. Without her, none of this would be possible. Though no one in their right mind would want to take on the challenge of fixing our city, our love for Jackson pushes us forward. Sometimes, one family must come together for the good of the larger family. My wonderful daughter Charla is finishing her PhD in Clinical Psychology at JSU, and her brother John Siraj, is pursuing his PhD in World History at Georgia State, while working in the commercial real estate industry. 

 

I have been a fighter my entire life. From the beginning, I have relentlessly pursued opportunities to improve the lives of others and the future of this community. My journey started with a vision for Mississippi’s youth, ages 16 to 20, who needed jobs and a path forward. I fought to create these opportunities and hundreds of young people have received jobs and training that set them on a brighter course.

 

I didn't stop there; I turned my attention to Mississippi’s burgeoning film industry, championing it until the state became a recognized destination for movie production. My efforts extended to the tourism industry, transforming Mississippi into a must-visit travel destination for thousands of people each year.

 

Once elected to the state senate in 1993, I saw the need for better infrastructure at Jackson State University (JSU). I fought for improved roads and transportation, leading to the development of the Robert Smith Parkway, which has made travel around the university easier and safer. Downtown Jackson also saw my determination firsthand. I fought for a modern meeting space that would attract business and visitors, resulting in the $85 million Jackson Convention Center, a hub of commerce and events.

 

I was part of the history-making effort to clear the name of Clyde Kinnard, a civil rights hero wrongfully convicted and tarnished. Thanks to those efforts, Kinnard was posthumously exonerated, and a building at Southern Miss now bears his name, honoring his legacy.

 

The fight didn’t stop there. I took on the challenge of revitalizing downtown Jackson, fighting to develop top-tier hotel accommodations that culminated in the $70 million Westin Hotel. And in my quest for truth and justice, I fought to ensure the state acknowledged its racist past. These hard-fought battles gave rise to the $120 million Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, a beacon of education and reflection.

 

My determination also paved the way for improved streets across Jackson, with a recurring fund generating $14 million a year to maintain the city's roads. In the realm of law enforcement, my advocacy ensured that the Hinds County's DA’s office, Sheriff’s Office and the County Courthouse received more funding than ever before from the state.

 

I am not just another politician — I’m a fighter, a doer, and a visionary. Every battle I take on leaves a lasting impact, making this community and Mississippi stronger for generations to come.