Another Democratic name has been entered into the gubernatorial race for Mississippi.
Former Mississippi state trooper Ivana Williams announced her Democratic campaign for Mississippi’s governor on Wednesday. Williams, a Jackson native and a graduate of now Mississippi Christian University, worked as a campus police dispatcher and municipal police officer before joining the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Williams was notably fired from her role as a state trooper for allegedly filming and distributing a sex tape of other troopers. The case against her has since been terminated with prejudice.
Williams says she will prioritize law enforcement training standards, whistleblower protections, inspector general legislation, workforce initiatives, and small-business measures.
“I have put together a plan that details my priorities for a state I cherish as a Mississippi native,” Williams said. “From economic development measures to proposals to expand Medicaid, promote small businesses, improve rural health care and make housing more affordable, the plan speaks to the promise of a better tomorrow for all Mississippians.”
Beyond her campaign’s focus on rural health improvements and affordable housing, Williams says she will also focus on oversight of state government, responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and public education. Within that, Williams supports higher teacher pay, stronger school preparation, and closer coordination between the governor’s office and schools at all levels in Mississippi.
“Improving our schools starts with K-12, but it does not end there,” Williams said. “We need to ensure students are prepared for the workforce or higher education at community colleges and universities, which are essential to advancing Mississippi in the years ahead.”
The “Williams Plan for Mississippi” also proposes identifying waste from state spending and redirecting those available funds towards underfunded initiatives. Williams notes that, if elected, she would provide public reports so that residents could see where this money is going.
“Eliminating waste, fraud and abuse in government agencies will be a top priority in my administration,” Williams said.
The second Democratic candidate in the 2027 gubernatorial election joins civil rights advocate Priscilla Till, cousin of Emmitt Till, as the only Democrats to throw their hats in the ring. Williams joins Attorney General Lynn Fitch, Mississippi Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson, and former Speaker of the House Philip Gunn in looking to be Gov. Tate Reeves’ successor.
The 2027 gubernatorial primary elections will occur Aug. 3, with the general election taking place Nov. 2. Other notable names circulating as possible GOP candidates include Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, business tycoon Tommy Duff, and State Auditor Shad White, who is expected to announced his candidacy on Nov. 9.
