Vote Your Values
Mississippians should be able to easily access any information we need on elections and candidates so we can make the best choice for who we trust to represent our communities.
Learn more about the values and goals of candidates in your district and important legislative changes taking place across the state.
Having the information you need to make the right choice when you cast a ballot is more crucial than ever.
The 2024 presidential election presents an opportunity for Mississippians to shape their future. The outcomes will have lasting effects on the Black populations in the Delta and Jackson, as well as the economically disadvantaged groups throughout the State. As voters head to the polls, they will be considering which candidates’ policies align best with their hope for a better Mississippi. Explore how the election outcomes could shape the future for these groups.
The 2024 Presidential Election and Its Implications for Mississippians
Impact on Poor Populations Throughout Mississippi
Mississippi has one of the highest poverty rates in the nation, affecting both urban and rural areas. The 2024 presidential election will have profound implications for the state’s poor populations: Social Safety Nets: The future of social safety net programs, such as food assistance, unemployment benefits, and welfare, will be a major concern. Candidates’ positions on these programs will determine the level of support available to those in need. Job Creation and Wages: Economic policies that focus on job creation, minimum wage increases, and workforce development will be essential. These measures can help lift families out of poverty and provide more stable economic futures. Healthcare: Access to affordable healthcare is a critical issue for low-income Mississippians. Policies that expand healthcare coverage and reduce costs will be vital in ensuring that all residents have access to necessary medical care.
Impact on Black Populations in the Delta
The Mississippi Delta, a region with a rich cultural history and a predominantly Black population, faces unique challenges. Historically, this area has struggled with high poverty rates, limited access to quality healthcare, and educational disparities. The 2024 presidential election could bring changes in several key areas: Economic Development: Candidates’ policies on economic development will be crucial. Initiatives aimed at revitalizing rural economies, investing in infrastructure, and supporting small businesses could provide much-needed jobs and economic growth in the Delta. Healthcare Access: With many residents relying on Medicaid, the future of healthcare policies will significantly impact the Delta. Proposals to expand Medicaid or introduce new healthcare reforms could improve access to medical services and reduce health disparities. Education: Education policies that focus on funding for public schools, teacher salaries, and educational resources will be vital. Investments in education can help break the cycle of poverty and provide better opportunities for the youth in the Delta.
Impact on Black Populations in Jackson, MS
Jackson, the capital city of Mississippi, is home to a large Black population and faces its own set of challenges. The city’s residents are particularly interested in how the election will address issues such as: Crime and Public Safety: Policies aimed at reducing crime and improving public safety are critical for Jackson. Candidates’ stances on criminal justice reform, community policing, and funding for law enforcement will be closely watched. Infrastructure: Jackson has struggled with aging infrastructure, including water and sewage systems. Federal support for infrastructure projects could lead to significant improvements in the quality of life for residents. Housing: Affordable housing remains a pressing issue. Policies that promote affordable housing development and provide assistance to low-income families could help alleviate housing insecurity in Jackson.
Major Candidates’ Stances on Key Issues for Mississippians
Economic Development in the Delta
Kamala Harris: Harris emphasizes investing in rural economies through infrastructure projects and support for small businesses. She advocates for federal grants and tax incentives to stimulate economic growth in underserved areas. Donald Trump: Trump focuses on deregulation and tax cuts to encourage private sector investment. He supports expanding broadband access and infrastructure improvements to attract businesses to rural regions.
Healthcare Access
Kamala Harris: Harris supports expanding Medicaid and implementing a public option to increase healthcare access. She also advocates for reducing prescription drug costs and expanding telehealth services. Donald Trump: Trump proposes giving states more flexibility with Medicaid and expanding telehealth. He emphasizes reducing healthcare costs through market-based solutions and increasing competition among providers.
Education in the Delta
Kamala Harris: Harris advocates for increased federal funding for public schools, higher teacher salaries, and expanded access to early childhood education. She also supports student loan forgiveness programs. Donald Trump: Trump supports school choice initiatives, including charter schools and voucher programs. He emphasizes local control over education and reducing federal oversight.
Crime and Public Safety in Jackson
Kamala Harris: Harris focuses on criminal justice reform, including reducing mandatory minimum sentences and increasing funding for community policing. She also supports measures to address systemic racism in law enforcement. Donald Trump: Trump advocates for stronger law enforcement and tougher penalties for crime. He supports increasing funding for police departments and expanding programs to combat gang violence.
Infrastructure in Jackson
Kamala Harris: Harris supports significant federal investment in infrastructure, including water and sewage systems, roads, and public transportation. She emphasizes the need for sustainable and resilient infrastructure projects. Donald Trump: Trump focuses on public-private partnerships to fund infrastructure projects. He supports streamlining regulations to expedite construction and improve efficiency.
Affordable Housing in Jackson
Kamala Harris: Harris proposes increasing federal funding for affordable housing projects and providing tax credits for renters. She also supports measures to prevent housing discrimination and promote fair housing practices. Donald Trump: Trump emphasizes reducing regulations to encourage private sector development of affordable housing. He supports tax incentives for developers and expanding homeownership programs.
Social Safety Nets for Poor Populations
Kamala Harris: Expanding social safety net programs and increasing the minimum wage could provide immediate financial relief and reduce poverty rates. Donald Trump: Emphasizing job creation and work requirements for welfare programs might encourage self-sufficiency but could also leave some vulnerable populations without adequate support.
Job Creation and Wages
Kamala Harris: Raising the federal minimum wage and investing in job training programs could increase incomes and reduce poverty, leading to a more robust economy. Donald Trump: Tax cuts and deregulation could stimulate job growth, particularly in high-demand industries, but the benefits might be unevenly distributed, favoring higher-income individuals and larger corporations.