/At Neshoba County Fair, Reeves and Hood reveal political strategies for 2019

At Neshoba County Fair, Reeves and Hood reveal political strategies for 2019

Reeves’ political rival and presumptive opponent for the office of governor in 2019, Attorney General Jim Hood, spoke to reporters after he had blasted Republican leaders in a speech about the specific problems facing the state “as a result of legislative inaction.” Four people in cheap masks stood behind Hood and held signs to the cameras. A Hillary Clinton imposter held signs that read: “I’m supporting Jim Hood.” A Barack Obama imposter had a sign that read: “Thanks Jim Hood, for supporting Obamacare!” #HopeAndChange. A fake Bernie Sanders was holding a sign that read: “Bernie love Jim Hood.” Hood explained his view to reporters, apparently unaware of the signs. Hood stated that he was tired of the partisan politics and said, “When people start talking about other people, using labels, and all that stuff, it is a sign that people are sick of this partisan chaos.” I hear from Republicans who want me to run as governor. They’re tired of partisan bickering. They want us to do something and move forward. They want to see someone that can bring people together. I just have to accept those slings, and arrows today.” This anecdote illustrates the political strategy both state officials will continue using ahead of the 2019 governor’s election. Reeves has tried to promote identity politics by portraying Hood as a liberal Democrat whose policies would align with national Democratic Party leaders who are widely disliked by most Mississippians – groups Hood is expected to gain support from in 2019. Reeves also stressed the importance of maintaining “successful Republican Leadership.” They’re flooding money into Mississippi this fiscal year and will continue to do so in 2019, to support our conservative achievements. Jim Hood, his friends Nancy Pelosi, and Barack Obama don’t believe in the state’s potential. They believe they can destroy our conservative principles. They want Mississippi to be blue.” Hood has been playing to both the Republican and Democratic leaders, trying to make their points. He then laid the foundation to propose his own candidacy to solve those problems. Hood stated, “If you are on a board or seat as a county supervisor, you know what the Legislature did to our cities and counties and how it has impeded their ability to provide services to their citizens.” Let me tell you, in the next year, I will have an opportunity finish this indictment (of Republican leaders) and move forward with facts to prove the problems we have here in Mississippi. It’s time to make this change. I invite you all to come along with me… Let’s make our state better. “I hope you’ll join me over the next one so that we can propel our state forward.” Hundreds of fairgoers gathered at Founder’s Square to hear Hood and Reeves rant about a controversial frontage route project that would have used public funds to link Reeves’ gated Flowood neighborhood with easy highway access. Hood initiated an investigation into the matter. Reeves called it a political move. Reeves reaffirmed that charge Wednesday and called the investigation “a lot political grandstanding by potential future political opponents”. Hood made one, subtle, reference to the frontage road in his speech. He mentioned that out of the $3 billion that he had obtained through legal settlements, Hood said that it would not stop the investigation. Hood stated that “anytime someone refuses to provide information, it’s a sign they have something to hide.” Hood stated, “We have a duty to perform and we will do it. I won’t let the partisan yapping and all of that …( distract me. It’s all part of the process.” To support this work, you can make a regular donation to us today as we celebrate our Spring Member Drive. This will allow us to continue important work such as this one.