Graham officially announces candidacy for mayor

The Mississippi Link Newswire

In May, District 1 Hinds County Supervisor, Robert Graham, confirmed plans to run for mayor of Jackson. Today, he officially announced his plans on the steps of the Hinds County Circuit Courthouse.

Besides being a Hinds County supervisor, Graham is president and CEO of Professional Dispatch 911 and a former Jackson Police Department reserve lieutenant.

“I am pleased and honored to announce my candidacy for mayor of the city of Jackson,” Graham said in a press release. “During my tenure with the Jackson Police Department and as a Hinds County Supervisor, I have gained an understanding of the complexities of local government including its capabilities and limitations.

“In my candidacy, I see helpful and positive roles for City Hall. Most importantly, the primary role for the mayor should be to serve as an advocate for the people of Jackson. There are many basic services that require our immediate attention. They include issues like streets, our water system and transit service. Also, we absolutely must address balancing fiscal responsibility with sound judgment. In addition, we need to strengthen our community foundations to bring more businesses and jobs back to Jackson.

“Next, the mayor should be a vital and active communications link between the people and the city. In my role as a long-time business owner, I’m constantly in touch with both citizens and business owners. I understand their needs and desires.

“Third, as mayor, I can be a valued partner with the city council, by taking advantage of the experiences, skills and perspectives, gained from my 33 years of being self-employed and community involvement. Fourth, because of this experience, I have ‘people skills’ that can be used to bring people together toward common goals and unity.

“I believe that the foundation of any thriving community should include education, the arts, shopping and recreation. If we want to attract strong companies to the area with better jobs, we must work to enhance and expand these areas.

“I look forward to running a positive campaign, meeting all the citizens of Jackson and tackling challenges.”

Attorney Chokwe Antar Lumumba announced plans to seek the mayoral post in May.