Willie Simmons (D-Cleveland), Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee, announced that he will be running for the Central District Transportation Commission position. Simmons stated that he has a wealth knowledge about the industry, its needs, and resources. I have combined this knowledge with my vision and commitment for the transportation system to be able to fulfill the duties and responsibilities that the Transportation Commission has from the moment that I am sworn-in.” Although the Transportation Commission and Public Service Commission have very different responsibilities, they are both composed of three members elected from each of the three districts: the Central, Northern, and Southern. Both commissions will likely have two of the three open seats for this year’s election. Simmons will be running in the Central District, where Dick Hall, a long-serving Republican Commissioner, has announced his retirement. Mike Tagert, the Republican Northern District Transportation Commission Chairperson, is also stepping down. Tom King, a Forrest County Republican is running for reelection as Southern District Commissioner. On the Public Service Commission Democrat Cecil Brown from the Central District has retired. It is widely believed that Sam Britton, a Jones County Republican, will be running for treasurer in the Southern District. Brandon Presley, Democratic Northern District Commissioner from Nettleton, has announced that he will be running for reelection. Simmons isn’t the only one to announce his candidacy for the Central District Transportation position. Marcus Wallace, Edwards Mayor, has already been qualified for the position and will, like Simmons be running as a Democrat. The Central District post will also be open to state rep. Michael Ted Evans (D-Preston). Simmons, a member of the House of Representatives from Texas, announced his candidacy on Thursday in front of the Department of Transportation building. Many of his colleagues were there to support him. These were Republican senators. Briggs Hopson from Vicksburg and Brice Wriggins of Pascagoula were among those who supported him. Wiggins stated that he couldn’t vote in Simmons’ district but he supports him. After the announcement, Wiggins stated that “Party is important but having the right person it even better.” “Willie’s been a great senator.” Simmons stated that last year’s special session, where additional funds were earmarked to infrastructure, was a good beginning, but that there is more work needed. Simmons said that while it is expected that the special session will eventually generate $200 million in additional transportation revenue each year, more than $400 million is still needed annually. He stated that additional revenue is needed and suggested that an increase in motor fuel tax “shouldn’t be ruled out” as a potential source of additional funds. The 18.4-cent motor fuel tax per gallon in Indiana, which was enacted in 1987 is the fifth-lowest in the country. Simmons has served in the Legislature since 1993.