Pender will be the Senior Political Reporter and work closely with Mississippi Today leadership in regards to editorial strategy, investigations, and investigative reporting. Adam Ganucheau (Mississippi Today Editor-in Chief) said, “I have always admired Geoff’s work and I couldn’t be prouder than to work with him again.” His deep knowledge of Mississippi politics and the respect he has earned over the years helps us achieve our mission to provide our readers with the best political coverage in the state. Pender brings thirty years of experience in government and political reporting to Mississippi Today. Pender was most recently the Politics and Investigative editor at The Clarion Ledger. He also wrote a popular column on politics. Pender was a leader in digital transformation at The Clarion Ledger. He also managed watchdog news teams, government reporting, and overseeing the operations of government reporters. Pender’s 16-year tenure at the Sun Herald saw him conduct investigations on both the county and city levels, leading to reform, prosecution, and conviction. Pender was elected to the position of Political and Investigative editor at the Capitol Bureau. He also participated in the Pulitzer Prize-winning Hurricane Katrina coverage team. Pender stated, “I am thrilled about the opportunity to join Mississippi Today’s talented news team.” Pender said, “I love Mississippi and Mississippi Today has made it a better place through its impactful journalism. It is an honor to be part of the team and help Mississippi Today achieve its important mission.”