Congressman Bennie Thompson officially backs Priester for Jackson Mayor
A close listen to Melvin Priester Jr.’s radio ads and policy ideas, which echo U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson’s oft-repeated frustrations of Jackson’s failure to apply for federal money, was enough to guess whom Thompson would support in the mayor’s race.
This morning, Thompson made it official, publicly endorsing Ward 2 Councilman and City Council President Priester at a press conference at Priester’s law office in north Jackson.
Thompson, whose congressional district represents the majority of Jackson, cited several reasons for his endorsement of Priester, particularly Priester’s drive to transform Jackson into a more nationally competitive city.
“The capital city clearly needs someone with the vision, ability and passion to get the job done,” Thompson said this morning. “I have known Melvin Priester Jr. his entire life and have watched him graduate top of his class at Murrah High School, finish college and law school, and return home to make a difference in our community. I have worked with Melvin Priester Jr. on various projects involving his ward and have been impressed with his desire to make the capital city a showplace for the state of Mississippi.”
Thompson is also a friend of Priester’s family, including his father, Hinds County Judge Melvin Priester Sr.
Jackson Free Press
3/31/14
Magnolia Tribune
