During the fall of 2017, I was given the opportunity to represent my hometown in the Mississippi House of Representatives. Being a long-time “behind-the-scenes” worker in my community, this role had never been an ambition of mine. However, when the opportunity to represent District 102 became available, I realized it was a call that I could not refuse.
I knew that our city was experiencing a new sense of enthusiasm for what we could achieve, and I felt strongly that I wanted to take a leadership role in advancing Hattiesburg toward its full potential.
When I asked the people of District 102 to allow me to represent my hometown, I only promised one thing: to put Hattiesburg first. Looking back on my first year and a half in this job, I can honestly say that I have done that.
Hattiesburg has enjoyed many victories over the past year. A comprehensive infrastructure bill, the first ever state investment in early childhood education in Hattiesburg Public School District history, a school bond renewal that passed with 94% approval and a parks and recreation referendum that passed with 81% approval are just a few of our major milestones.
This job has not always been easy. Sometimes putting Hattiesburg first means being an independent voice and saying “no” to things that run contrary to our best interests and values.
It has truly been one of the great privileges of my life to represent my home in the Mississippi Legislature. However, while we have seen great success in my first two years as your representative, there is more to do and more to accomplish for Hattiesburg.
I am grateful for the opportunity you have given me and am asking for the opportunity to continue serving District 102 for the next four years.
This race is incredibly important to the future of our city. Hattiesburg has real momentum, and we must have a representative who can effectively advocate for those things that make us strong – like our university, our health care community and our small businesses. Your representative must also be able to work to improve those things which are challenges: our public schools, local infrastructure and retaining young talent.
Our city’s best days are ahead. We have only begun to scratch the surface of what we can achieve when we come together, think big and do our part. I thank you for the honor of representing our great city, and this year I humbly ask you to join me in putting our community and its future first.
