Below are some highlights from our 2022 Legislative Session that just ended this week. As I transition from my State Senator role to U.S. Congressional candidate, I invite you to keep up with us as I hit the campaign trail.
Legislative Wrap-Up
The 2022 Legislative Session has come to an end, and I’m proud to say it will go down as one of the most monumental Sessions in Mississippi history. Looking back over the past few months, this Session has been like no other.
“The harder the conflict, the greater the triumph.”
-George Washington
Through my leadership in the State Senate, we came together and navigated many difficult, but necessary negotiations while staying true to our conservative principles.
My experience negotiating many of these policies, along with the successes of this session, demonstrate why I’m the right person to represent the 4th Congressional District in Congress.
– I don’t just talk about change, I create change.
– I don’t just talk about policy, I write policy.
– I don’t just talk about positions, I stand up and fight for what WE believe in.
– I’m not afraid to show up and take action. I’m not afraid to take a stand.
Not one of my congressional opponents can say the same.
This past session was about creating positive change, and I’m honored to have been part of making a difference for the people of Mississippi.
Highest Teacher Pay Raise in Mississippi History
As a Senate Education Committee member, I worked to bring our teachers’ salaries to a level that is above the national average. Reaching this milestone will help us compete to attract new teachers, retain our current teachers and recognize the valuable work our teachers do. I have always stood behind our state’s educators and promise to continue to do so as your Congressman.
Learn more HERE.
Largest Tax Cut in Mississippi History
Through this tax cut, we put more than $500 million back into taxpayers’ pockets, making our state one of the most competitive in the nation in terms of income tax rates. As Mississippians, we work hard for our money and every dollar we can return to you is money well spent. Plus, more money in your pocket means more money in our economy. It’s a win-win. It’s conservative.
Click HERE to watch my policy video on cutting taxes and balancing the budget.
Sponsored and Passed Equal Pay for Women
Before I introduced and helped pass this legislation, Mississippi was the only state in the nation that didn’t have State equal pay protections for women. I want things to be better for the hardworking women of Mississippi, and now we can look forward to the opportunities this will bring to current and future generations. Mississippi cannot afford to be last anymore; I will see to it.
Read my official statement HERE and see the LINKED VIDEO of me on the Senate floor presenting the bill beginning at the 4:15:50 minute mark.
Prevented Critical Race Theory in our Schools
Too many people want to divide us these days. Critical Race Theory, originally a law school theoretical class that’s been pushed in our kids’ schools, does just this. Despite the confusing political rhetoric, this legislation will help ensure no one is discriminated against. Our children need to be taught the truth—-good, bad, ugly—of our country and that American democracy is still the best and most open form of government as it grants rights and liberties to all. We do not need our children immersed in lessons of hate and prejudices. Learn more HERE.
Fought Federal COVID-19 Vaccine Mandates
In this session, I fought back against federal overreach by sponsoring and helping pass legislation to prohibit COVID-19 vaccine mandates. From the well of the Mississippi Senate, I addressed the issue head-on and spoke out against the mandates as well as our need to reign in out of control government. In the end, it’s about WWJD (What Would Jesus Do).
And of course, throughout this monumental session, I never forgot about the people and place I call home…
As the rebuilding process continues from the Mississippi Gulf Coast to the Pine Belt, I’ve continued to ensure projects are moving forward for those deeply affected by the BP Oil Spill. Some completed projects funded by BP/GCRF which I helped secure include:
- Downtown Gulfport Redevelopment Projects
Pass Christian Water Front Redevelopment
- Pascagoula Rail Line Development
Biloxi Popp’s Ferry Extension Project
- Waveland Marina Development
- Ocean Springs Redevelopment Projects
- Moss Point’s Magnificent Mile 2.0 Project
Hancock County Port and Harbor Commission’s Technology Park at Stennis Airport
Pearl River County Industrial Park Project
- Long Beach Harbor Complex Restoration
Bay St. Louis Public Safety Complex
Mississippi State University Research and Technology’s Mississippi Cyber Center Project
Diamondhead District Transportation
Stone County Heritage Spring Water Project
Downtown Biloxi Redevelopment of Barq’s and Kress Buildings on Howard Avenue
Honorable Mentions
Medical Marijuana
You asked, we listened.
Click HERE to see my interview with Y’all Politics to learn more.
First Responders Caucus
I created a platform for those on the frontline to be heard. We passed several key pieces of legislation to benefit our first responders. Learn more HERE.
Legislating is hard work when you actually show up and turn words into action. I’m all about action that creates real change to better the lives of the people I am elected to represent and everyone who calls Mississippi home.
I hope you will consider my passion and strong record of getting things done both efficiently and effectively. I ask for your vote and support on June 7.
