The Other Side: Mississippi Today’s Political Podcast

Fresh eyes: New lawmakers give their take on the Mississippi Legislature

Feb 24, 2026

Sens. Kamesha Mumford of Jackson and Justin Pope of Pope (yes, Pope) share their insight and experiences as freshmen lawmakers, at the halfway point of their first legislative session. The two say they've quickly realized legislating centers around relationships made at the Capitol and how one works with others.

Secretary of State Michael Watson says Mississippi needs campaign finance reform

Feb 17, 2026

Secretary of State Michael Watson discusses his push for lawmakers to enact campaign finance reform, including transparency and searchability of reports for the public. Watson says he knows such legislation is a tough sell with lawmakers.

Pro tem Kirby says 'We couldn't find anybody who supported it' when school choice bill got to Senate

Feb 10, 2026

Senate President Pro tem Dean Kirby, a Republican from Pearl, gives an update on school choice, state support for areas devastated by the winter storm, and serving in the position known as "the senators' senator."

Kirby said the state will help areas hit by Winter Storm Fern, but says damages will be in the...

Rep. Summers: With U.S. Supreme Court likely to dismantle Voting Rights Act, Mississippi lawmakers push for state version

Feb 2, 2026

State Rep. Zakiya Summers has filed the House version of the "Robert G. Clark Jr. Voting Rights Act." It's an effort to get out in front of what many expect will be the further dismantling of the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965 by the U.S. Supreme Court. Summers isn't extremely optimistic about the measure's passage...