Qualifying ongoing for region’s judicial posts
At least one Northeast Mississippi circuit court judicial race will include an incumbent facing a challenger in November.
Qualifying began Jan. 1 for the nonpartisan races that will appear on the Nov. 4 ballot. Judicial candidates are filing for circuit, chancery and Mississippi Court of Appeals positions.
In District 1 Circuit Court, Judge Paul S. Funderburk hasn’t qualified yet to serve another term but plans to seek re-election. Mantachie attorney Dennis Farris hasn’t officially qualified to challenge the three-term incumbent but has mailed qualifying papers.
Funderburk said preparation for recent cases has kept his mind off politics, but he will file qualifying papers soon. He also said his years of judicial experience should give voters confidence to support him for another term.
“If there’s anything that helps a person be a better judge, it’s experience,” he said Wednesday. “I plan on staying as long as my health will allow it.”
Farris wasn’t ready to discuss specifics about his candidacy.
“I’ll be happy to talk to you once it becomes official,” he said.
Daily Journal
2/13/14
Magnolia Tribune
