Got a question or a tip? Send us a text

When incumbent State Representative Kabir Karriem and challenger Pierre Beard stepped into our studio, we knew we were in for an enlightening conversation—what we got was political theater at its most raw and revealing. Their face-off for Mississippi House District 41 quickly evolved from policy discussion to personal confrontation, giving voters an unfiltered look at both candidates.

The special election, triggered by redistricting efforts to increase Black representation in the state legislature, has both candidates presenting vastly different visions for District 41. Representative Karriem leans heavily on his experience and established relationships in Jackson, positioning himself as the seasoned legislator with the connections needed to deliver results. Beard, fresh from a council loss, counters with a message of change and accessibility, repeatedly questioning Karriem's visibility and effectiveness despite his years in office.

The debate revealed significant agreement on keeping the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS) in Columbus, with both recognizing its vital importance to the local economy and the Mississippi University for Women. However, they diverged sharply on priorities like Beard's proposed public transportation system, which Karriem dismissed as impractical and symptomatic of legislative inexperience.

Most surprising was the unexpected detour into personal territory, with both men trading accusations about past arrests and behavior. This raw exchange highlighted the deeply personal nature of local politics and gave voters insight into how each candidate handles conflict—an important consideration for a Democrat representing district interests in a Republican-dominated legislature where relationship-building is essential.

Whether you're looking for experienced leadership or fresh energy, this debate offers crucial insights into the candidates vying to represent District 41.

Zack and David also introduce 3 Things to Know, a new feature that gives brief updates on the week's top headlines.

Got a question or a tip? Send us a text

Columbus City Attorney Jeff Turnage joins us to discuss the overwhelming public support for keeping MSMS at MUW, revealing 185 public comments sent to Mississippi Department of Education, favoring the school's current location versus only three supporting relocation to MSU. MSU's response through spokesperson Sid Salter has stoked the controversy, leading to a discussion about the roles people are playing in this issue.

• The public feedback on MSMS's future was made public through an open records request filed by Turnage. Those records can be reviewed at the bottom of the Dispatch article here.
• Three main concerns emerged: cost differences, potential loss of MSMS identity, and campus safety
• MSU's Sid Salter dismissed public comments as "an organized effort to generate appearance of support"
• W President Nora Miller has taken a stronger stance on keeping MSMS at her institution. Zack and David agree she should continue to mobilize MUW alumni.
• Turnage says the legislature, not the State Board of Education, will make the final decision, and they are subject to public pressure.

Also:
• Columbus City Council discusses a new data-driven approach to road maintenance
• The price for residential trash pickup in Columbus is increasing. Will residents have to pay more?

Got a question or a tip? Send us a text

Mayor Stephen Jones' inauguration sets a new tone for Columbus leadership, offering hope paired with practical challenges. In a ceremony and first council meeting marked by unity and unanimous votes, Jones emphasized his commitment to serving all citizens while acknowledging his faith as a guiding principle. The true test of his administration will come when inevitable disagreements arise.

As our guest and local Realtor and community advocate Colin Krieger notes, "Columbus has all the ingredients for success" - but turning potential into progress requires navigating difficult conversations with grace. From the city's approach to visible homelessness downtown to addressing workforce development gaps despite available manufacturing jobs, Columbus faces multifaceted challenges.

Education emerges as another flashpoint, with MSMS potential relocation and school consolidation rumors creating uncertainty. Meanwhile, economic realities reveal surprising statistics: only about 32% of factory workers in the area's industrial developments actually live in the Golden Triangle region, highlighting disconnects between economic opportunity and local workforce readiness.

Join the conversation and attend local government meetings – because as Krieger reminds us, these leaders are uniquely accessible if we simply show up.