Several candidates running to unseat incumbent Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba answered our questions on housing, infrastructure and more in the capital city ahead of the April 1, 2025, municipal primaries.
Independent candidates will not appear on the ballot during the municipal primaries on April 1 but will appear on the ballot during the June 3 general election.
Wilfred Beal, Republican
Rodney DePriest, Independent
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Delano Funches, Democrat
Tim Henderson, Democrat
John Horhn, Democrat
Kourtney Christopher Paige, Democrat
Zach Servis, Independent
Marcus Wallace, Democrat
Albert Wilson, Democrat
The Mississippi Free Press sent the following questionnaire to all Jackson mayoral candidates. We present their responses with light edits.
Wilfred Beal, Republican
Wilfred Beal, a Republican, has extensive experience in management, transportation, and domestic and international business.
From your perspective, what are the three most pressing issues for the City of Jackson right now?
The three most pressing issues for Jackson are:
Aging Infrastructure: This includes water and sewer systems that frequently break down, affecting the quality of life for all residents.
Public Safety: High crime rates and concerns about safety continue to affect neighborhoods and the general well-being of the community.
Economic Development: We need to attract new businesses, improve job opportunities, and revitalize key areas in Jackson to create a more vibrant economy.
Some residents complain about a lack of quality services (i.e., public works, code enforcement). How can the City of Jackson better serve its residents?
I plan to implement a comprehensive review of public services to ensure they are operating efficiently and meeting the needs of residents. I will work closely with city departments to streamline operations and address deficiencies. With my background in transportation planning and project management, I will prioritize securing funding and partnerships to modernize and improve the quality of services provided to Jackson residents.
What are some ways to prevent crime that do not involve law enforcement?
Preventing crime requires a multi-faceted approach. I will focus on improving economic opportunities and educational programs for young people, providing safe
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