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Mississippi Democrats call for State...

Mississippi Democrats call for State Fair boycott over Trump rally

By: Frank Corder - June 11, 2024

Trump rally

Mississippi Republicans rally for Trump at the Ag Musuem in Jackson (Photo from Commissioner Andy Gipson's Facebook)

  • Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson said the call to boycott the State Fair is about as ridiculous as the charges brought against Donald Trump in New York City.

The Mississippi Democratic Party on Monday condemned a recent rally in support of former President Donald Trump held on the grounds of the Ag Museum in Jackson and called for a boycott of the upcoming Mississippi State Fair.

The event was hosted by Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson (R) and supported by Governor Tate Reeves (R), Republican lawmakers and the Mississippi Republican Party. Hundreds of people attended.

State Rep. Cheikh Taylor, Chairman of the Mississippi Democratic Party, said the rally was not just a show of support for Trump, but a dangerous endorsement of criminal behavior and corruption.

State Rep. Cheikh Taylor, chairman of the Mississippi Democratic Party

“It is deeply concerning and frankly alarming to see our state leaders, including Attorney General Lynn Fitch and Governor Tate Reeves, supporting a convicted felon,” said Taylor. “Their actions reflect a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the principles of justice that our country was founded upon.”

Trump was convicted on 34 counts in the New York hush money case involving payments made for an adult film actress. His sentencing is set for July 11th.

Chairman Taylor also called for Mississippians to boycott the State Fair set to begin in October, an event Commissioner Gipson and the Agriculture Department oversee. The annual fair brought in over 500,000 visitors to Jackson over the course of the 10-day event last year.

Taylor said by boycotting the State Fair, Democrats aim to send a clear message that the citizens of Mississippi “will not support or tolerate the actions of leaders who stand with a convicted criminal.” The party urged all Mississippians “who value justice, integrity, and the rule of law” to join in the boycott.

In response, Gipson took to social media, calling the party’s boycott “ridiculous.”

“The Mississippi Democrat Party’s statement and boycott of our State Fair is about as ridiculous as the charges brought against Donald Trump in New York City,” wrote Gipson. “I invite everyone to come enjoy the Mississippi State Fair October 3rd through 13th!”

About the Author(s)
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Frank Corder

For nearly two decades, Frank Corder has reported and offered analysis on government, public policy, elections, business and matters of faith. He is the Editor for Magnolia Tribune where he oversees the day-to-day content development. Frank’s interviews, articles, and columns have been syndicated throughout Mississippi as well as in various national publications. His resume includes appearances on the BBC, CBS News, ABC News, and Fox News, among others. Frank is a frequent analyst on radio and television, providing insight and commentary on the inner workings of the Magnolia State and beyond. During his career, Frank has interviewed government officials and candidates from City Halls to the White House, including Presidential candidates, White House officials, U.S. Senators, Congressmen, Cabinet Secretaries, and Governors. He previously hosted his own local radio and television programs and has managed private businesses in the financial, hospitality, and retail sectors. Frank has served his community as an elected City Councilman and as an Assistant/Acting City Manager. In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, he led the effort to plan Pascagoula's recovery and rebuilding which earned him recognition as Mississippi's Volunteer of the Year. Frank also led Pascagoula's municipal government out of a $14.5 million deficit, which the Mississippi State Auditor heralded as a model for other communities facing dire financial straits. As the president of the Pascagoula High School Quarterback Club, Frank has self-published "The Book of Pascagoula Football." He has been married for over 25 years and has two children, both of whom work in public education. Email Frank: frank@magnoliatribune.com