Hood was flanked by several local officials as well as state legislators. He emphasized the importance of a new level of leadership in Mississippi. Hood stated, “It is time for Mississippi to come together.” Hood stated that it was time to end the partisan and petty politics. Hood stated Wednesday morning that both Republicans and Democrats in the state encouraged him to run for governor. Hood stated that the campaign’s focus would be helping historically marginalized communities. “Jesus taught me to fight for the poor, the elderly, the widows and children – the most vulnerable among us.” Hood criticised the Legislature for giving out tax cuts worth hundreds of millions to corporations outside of state. Hood suggested expanding Medicaid and said that “we shouldn’t leave hundreds of million of federal dollars on table.” He also expressed concern over the Mississippi brain drain epidemic, saying that state leaders should focus their attention on keeping young Mississippians here. Hood will likely face Lt. Governor. In the 2019 gubernatorial elections, Tate Reeves will be facing Hood. Reeves spokeswoman, Tate Reeves, declined to comment on Hood’s announcement on Wednesday morning. She cited news about a Brookhaven funeral for a Brookhaven officer who had died. “The Lt. “The Lt. Governor will not comment on Attorney General Hood’s political announcement or any other politics or campaign activities today,” Laura Hipp, Reeves’ spokeswoman, said in a statement. “Mississippians from all backgrounds will spend today paying tribute to the brave men and women who wear the badge proudly and risk their lives protecting our communities. Elee and (his wife), he send their deepest condolences to Officer James White’s family, and all of Lincoln County’s law enforcement community. Zach Moak was killed in the line-of-duty on Saturday. Hood was present at White’s viewing service on Tuesday evening. However, his campaign stated that the Wednesday announcement on Wednesday did not allow enough travel time for White’s funeral on Wednesday. Reeves spoke Tuesday night at a Southaven rally hosted by President Donald Trump. According to a poll by Millsaps College, and Chism Strategies, Hood’s approval rating is higher than that of any other elected official in Mississippi. Hood is approved by 51% of Mississippians, and disapproved by 27%. According to the poll, Reeves’ approval rating is at 37%, while his disapproval rating is at 22%. Hood made a subtle dig at Reeves in Wednesday’s speech. In July, many outlets raised concerns about the influence Reeves may have had in building a $2 million frontage road linking his gated neighborhood with a state highway. Reeves denied any involvement. Hood’s office is investigating this allegation. Hood stated that Hood was tired of Jackson’s self-dealing. “People are more concerned about paving private driveways that they are about any other thing.” Clarification: An earlier version did not clarify whether Hood was present at Officer James White’s funeral. Hood was unable to attend White’s funeral, but he attended White’s visitation Tuesday evening.