Mississippi Edition

The new legislative year is underway. We check in with the Senate and hear some reflections from outgoing Governor Bryant.

Then, the SPLC leads a coalition of advocates in urging the Department of Justice to investigate the Mississippi prison crisis. We talk to one of their lead attorneys.

And, in a historic moment, Willie Simmons is sworn in as Transportation Commissioner.

Segment 1:

The Mississippi Senate commenced Tuesday at noon. After swearing in all 52 Senators, one of the first orders of business was to elect a new President Pro Tempore. Republican Senator Josh Harkins of Rankin introduced the nomination of Dean Kirby. Democrat Barbara Blackmon seconded the motion. Republican Senator Chassaniol also seconded the nomination. Dean Kirby was elected President Pro Tempore by acclamation.

Senator Brice Wiggins, a Republican from Pascagoula, tells MPB's Desare Frazier that the first meeting of the new Senate body brought a refreshing energy that will be needed to move Mississippi forward.

Governor Phil Bryant was also on hand at the Capital. He reflects on his eight years as governor with our Desare Frazier.

Segment 2:

The Southern Poverty Law Center is leading a coalition of reformers in a push to get the United States Justice Department to investigate the Mississippi prison crisis. Paloma Wu, a Senior Supervising Attorney with the SPLC, was one of many speakers during a rally outside the capitol Tuesday. She tells our Michael Guidry that the current crisis is decades in the making.

Dora Wolfe of Terry has a son currently incarcerated at Parchman. She believes the current conditions are unsafe.

Segment 3:

Willie Simmons was sworn in as Central District Transportation Commissioner on Tuesday. The moment marks the first time an African-American has held that position. Mr. Simmons met with MPB's Kobee Vance during the ceremony.