[Editorial]  JFP Run-off Endorsements

May 13, 2009

Earlier this month, the Jackson Free Press Editorial Board enthusiastically endorsed Harvey Johnson Jr. for the office of mayor, and we hold to that endorsement as we enter the May 19 run-offs.

After four years of closed, inefficient city government, Jackson needs someone at the helm that can restore order to City Hall. Of course, Johnson’s administration was not perfect; he had a reputation for being slow to act on projects, and some department directors lacked a firm understanding of their roles. However, on his watch, several projects moved into motion, including the construction of the newly completed Jackson Convention Complex. Johnson forged positive relationships with the mayors of Jackson’s surrounding cities, and Jackson appeared on positive national lists, including being named one of the “most livable cities” in America.

As we said two weeks ago, had it been four years from now, perhaps we would be ready to elect a fresh candidate. However, what Jackson needs now is someone who knows what they are doing from day one and can give life to stalled projects and correct the city’s most basic problems. Harvey Johnson Jr. is that man.

We also stick to our City Council endorsements. Former Ward 4 Councilman Bo Brown is his own man and seems to have Jackson’s best interests at heart. Although he admits he was not the perfect councilman, he says that he can now clearly see Jackson’s issues and is committed to solving them.

Ward 5 candidate Bettye Dagner-Cook, also a former council member, will be a welcome return to efficient governing. Dagner-Cook is not only thorough, but she also is willing to go against the grain if it benefits Jackson, which we’ve not seen in the incumbent Charles Tillman.

Marshall Elementary School Principal Tony Yarber will bring youthful vigor to the council and to Ward 6. He is committed to uniting the residents of South Jackson through associations and coalitions, and to being proactive.

While initially unsure of his ability to fill Leslie McLemore’s position as a neutral, independent, steady voice on the City Council, the Jackson Free Press has since decided to endorse civil-rights attorney Chokwe Lumumba in the run-offs for the Ward 2 City Council seat.

Lumumba has toned down the more fiery and divisive rhetoric of his past, while preserving his commitment to social justice and his ability to inspire. Lumumba takes principled stands, sometimes against his own self-interest, and the council could benefit from his moral leadership. He has shown a respect for compromise, however, espousing the “unity-debate-unity” model of decision-making. We believe that he will serve his ward and the city of Jackson with an attentive, yet firm hand.

Please vote Tuesday, May 19. The city’s future is in your hands.

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