Democratic State Party Chair Race: Rumors (for now)
1. Jamie Franks (Is Definitely Running)
He was a state representative representing District 19, which includes parts of Lee, Itawamba and Tishomingo Counties, from 2000 to 2007.
In 2007 he ran for Lieutenant Governor against Lt. Governor Phil Bryant taking 41% of the vote in what was bad year for Democrats in Mississippi statewide elections.
He’s a conservative Democrat with degrees from Mississippi College and the University of Mississippi.
He expressed concern publicly and privately about the state of the Democratic party structure in Mississippi. (While it has gotten better in the last 4 years, we still have a long way to go)
2. Rob Smith
He is a Realtor and land developer.
He was a state senator representing District 35 until 2001.
He ran for State Treasurer in 2003 losing in the Democratic primary to Gary Anderson.
He ran for Secretary of State in 2007 as the Democratic nominee.
3. Claude McInnis
He is the current Vice Chair and his name has come up in the past for this seat.
He is the Chair of the Hinds County Democratic Party
CottonMouth
6/2/8
Magnolia Tribune
