Mississippi politicians gather at Neshoba County Fair to pitch their vision to voters

"For so long, Mississippi has been the nation's best kept secret, but people are starting to take notice," Fitch said. "More and more people are looking at Mississippi as an example to follow... Mississippi is truly leading."

Fitch highlighted efforts to combat human trafficking and reduce fentanyl related overdose deaths. She also discussed her work to strengthen online protections for children through the Walker Montgomery Protecting Children Online Act. She reflected on the state role in the legal challenge that overturned Roe v. Wade.

"Always remember that we protected life by overturning Roe v. Wade," Fitch said.

Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hoseman turned his attention to issues lawmakers are expected to tackle during the 2027 legislative session. This includes redistricting for congressional and legislative seats.

"The districts are going to be different because they're going to consider Republicans and Democrats," Hoseman said. "The way that we get into trouble is if it's race related."

Hoseman also revisited a debate from last session regarding school choice. He suggested that lawmakers should openly discuss the use of public funds for private education.

"The debate needs to focus on whether or not we want to give money to private students," Hoseman said. "Let's just all be honest about it."

Candidates seeking federal office also used the fair to introduce themselves. Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Scott Colom emphasized government accountability and ethics. He argued that elected officials should prioritize public service above politics.

"The job isn't to protect people in power," Colom said. "The job is to do right by people every time."

State Treasurer David McRae announced that he will seek a third term. He highlighted the return of nearly 200 million dollars to Mississippians through the unclaimed property program and investment gains generated during his tenure.

After his speech McRae noted that the Neshoba County Fair remains one of the best opportunities for elected officials to connect with voters.

"You talk politics. You kind of hear the rumor mill, especially with next year, with the elections and everything," McRae said. "I'm excited to be running a third term as state treasurer because I feel that there is so much left to do."

For many attendees the social tradition of the fair is just as important as the political one. Pippa Jackson has attended the fair since she was a child. She noted that the speeches remain a defining part of the weeklong event.

"I've been going to the political speeches every year because this is one of the major speaking places for anyone running for anything in Mississippi," Jackson said. "It's a good place for them to share their messages."

Seventeen year old Blake Bartlam of Brandon was among the younger attendees listening to the day's speeches. Bartlam said decisions made by today's elected officials will shape his generation for years.

"We're going to be dealing with these problems for the rest of our lives," Bartlam said. "We want to be able to create a good foundation so that we can build our families and build our lives off that foundation so we can make our state a better place not only right now, but for years to come."

Political speeches will continue throughout the week as statewide candidates and elected officials return to one of the most recognizable campaign stops in Mississippi. This tradition has shaped state politics for more than 130 years.