Policy Priorities

1. Expand Domestic Energy Production and Grid Modernization

Proposal: Encourage responsible energy development in Mississippi—covering natural gas, renewable energy, and local grid enhancements—to lower costs and reduce reliance on volatile global markets.

Implementation: Advocate for federal incentives and regulatory reforms that accelerate energy infrastructure projects. Support public‑private partnerships and technology investments to modernize the electric grid, especially in rural and underserved areas.

Expected Impact: More stable and affordable energy rates, reduced utility bill volatility, and a more resilient energy system that benefits families and businesses across Mississippi.

2. Strengthen Supply Chains and Support Local Manufacturing

Proposal: Reinforce domestic supply chain resilience by revitalizing local manufacturing and transportation infrastructure, driving down costs for essential goods.

Implementation: Secure federal grants and investments aimed at upgrading Mississippi’s ports, roads, and logistics networks. Offer tax incentives and regulatory relief to encourage local production in critical sectors like agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and technology.

Expected Impact: Reduced shipping delays and costs, stronger local economies, and more affordable essential goods for consumers statewide.

3. Deliver Targeted Tax Relief for Working Families

Proposal: Reduce the tax burden on working Mississippians to increase disposable income and stimulate local commerce.

Implementation: Champion federal and state tax cuts tailored to middle‑ and working‑class households. Advocate for enhanced child tax credits and energy rebates tied to household incomes.

Expected Impact: Immediate relief for families grappling with rising costs, boosted local spending power, and stronger small business growth fueled by consumer confidence.

4. Stop Wasteful Spending to Combat Inflation

Proposal: Reduce federal overreach and curtail frivolous spending to ease inflationary pressures affecting Mississippi families.

Implementation: Support zero‑based budgeting, require transparent justification for federal programs, and eliminate unnecessary earmarks. Promote accountability and reallocate funds to cost‑sensitive priorities like energy and tax relief.

Expected Impact: Lower inflation, restored fiscal discipline, and a more affordable cost of living as government spending aligns with household needs.

5. Empower Local Producers and Strengthen Community Economies

Proposal: Champion Mississippi farms, energy producers, and small manufacturers through reduced regulation and expanded market access.

Implementation: Remove outdated barriers hindering rural producers; support public‑private collaborations that enable local goods and energy to reach broader markets. Incentivize value‑added production facilities (e.g., food processing, bioenergy) with targeted tax credits.

Expected Impact: Lower grocery and fuel prices, sustainable job creation in local industries, and a revitalized economy anchored in community resilience.

But there is room for improvement. 

Mississippi’s public school system faces a mix of challenges and opportunities. Historically, the state has struggled with low rankings in several key areas of education, including student achievement, graduation rates, and funding. According to recent reports, Mississippi ranks near the bottom in national assessments of math and reading proficiency, with many students not meeting grade-level expectations. Additionally, the state has one of the lowest per-pupil spending rates in the country, which affects the availability of resources, teacher salaries, and the overall quality of education. Many rural areas face teacher shortages, outdated facilities, and limited access to advanced courses, all of which contribute to disparities in educational outcomes.

Despite these challenges, there are bright spots in Mississippi’s educational system. The state has seen gains in early childhood education, with a focus on improving literacy through initiatives like the Mississippi Literacy-Based Promotion Act. Recent improvements in 4th-grade reading scores, for example, show that targeted interventions can work. The state is also home to some strong public schools, particularly in districts with better funding and community involvement. However, there’s still significant room for growth across the state.

By focusing on career readiness, Mississippi can reduce unemployment, strengthen the state’s economy, and give young people the tools they need to succeed. In addition, Increasing teacher salaries in Mississippi is a strategic initiative that aligns with our commitment to enhancing education. These are just some of the ideas that Sarah supports to improve the quality of education in Mississippi:

1. Revise Federal Education Policies to Support State Innovations

• Proposal: Allow Mississippi greater flexibility in utilizing federal education funds to implement state-specific reforms.​
• Implementation: Waive certain federal regulations that limit state innovation, enabling Mississippi to tailor educational programs to local needs. Ensure that state reforms align with federal goals of equity and excellence.​
• Expected Impact: Customized educational strategies will address unique state challenges, leading to improved student outcomes.​

2. Support Teacher Recruitment and Retention Initiatives

• Proposal: Provide federal grants to Mississippi for programs that recruit and retain qualified teachers, particularly in high-need areas.​
• Implementation: Fund initiatives like the Mississippi Teacher Corps, which recruits college graduates to teach in critical-need areas, offering training and financial incentives.​
• Expected Impact: A stable and qualified teaching workforce will enhance educational quality and student learning experiences. ​

3. Increase Teacher Salaries

• Proposal: Implement a structured increase in teacher salaries to make Mississippi’s compensation packages more competitive nationally, aiming to attract and retain top-tier educators.​
• Implementation:Gradually raise the starting salary for teachers with a Bachelor’s degree from $41,500 to $50,000 over a five-year period. Adjust salaries for educators with advanced degrees proportionally. Introduce merit-based bonuses for teachers who demonstrate exceptional student growth and engagement, fostering a culture of excellence. Allocate funds for continuous professional development, ensuring teachers have access to the latest pedagogical strategies and subject matter expertise.​
• Expected Impact: Research indicates that higher teacher salaries are associated with increased student performance, as experienced teachers are more effective in the classroom. Competitive pay reduces turnover rates, maintaining continuity and stability in student learning. Elevated salaries position Mississippi as an attractive destination for skilled teachers, enriching the state’s educational talent pool.​

4. Revise and Diversify the Curriculum to Meet Modern Needs

• Proposal: Update the curriculum to include critical thinking, digital literacy, vocational training, and cultural awareness, preparing students for a global economy.​
• Implementation: Collaborate with educators, industry leaders, and cultural organizations to develop curriculum standards that reflect current societal and economic demands. Integrate STEM programs, arts education, and life skills training into school offerings.​
• Expected Impact: A diversified curriculum equips students with versatile skills, fosters adaptability, and enhances competitiveness in various career paths.​

5. Promote Transparency and Accountability in Education

• Proposal: Maintain high standards of accountability to ensure that educational reforms lead to measurable improvements in student outcomes.​
• Implementation: Implement data-driven assessment tools, conduct regular audits of educational programs, and engage the public through transparent reporting on progress and challenges.​
• Expected Impact: Transparency and accountability will build public trust, facilitate continuous improvement, and ensure that educational resources are utilized effectively to benefit all students.​

However, the strength of our immigrant community depends on ensuring that the process of coming to the United States is done legally and transparently. Legal immigration allows individuals to contribute to society while ensuring they are supported through the appropriate structures, such as access to education, healthcare, and the chance to build a future. It’s a pathway that fosters inclusion while upholding the laws and values of the country, which protect both immigrants and long-time residents.

At the same time, it is essential to protect our communities from the threat posed by illegal activity, including those who may cross borders unlawfully with the intent to harm. Mississippi, like any state, deserves security, and it is critical to ensure that law enforcement has the resources to keep out those who wish to engage in criminal behavior. Keeping dangerous criminals out is not just about protecting American families; it is also about protecting immigrants who come here seeking a better life from exploitation and crime. A strong, legal immigration system allows us to welcome those who come to contribute and build while ensuring safety and justice for all.

1. Reform the Visa System

• Proposal: Streamline the visa system to prioritize high-skilled workers, agricultural laborers, and industries facing shortages. Introduce a merit-based immigration system that rewards skills, education, and economic contribution.
• Implementation: Draft legislation to increase caps on employment-based visas and reduce processing times. Reform the H-2A and H-2B visa programs to ensure Mississippi’s agriculture and other key industries have the labor force they need. Set up partnerships with universities and industries to match foreign talent with U.S. economic needs.
• Expected Impact: Mississippi and other states benefit from a more reliable and legal workforce. Economic growth fueled by talent-based immigration, while maintaining the security of job markets for American workers. Decreased illegal employment practices and labor shortages in agriculture, technology, and manufacturing sectors.

2. Enhance Legal Immigration Pathways

• Proposal: Create clear and efficient legal immigration pathways for individuals already residing in the U.S. legally but facing long wait times for permanent residency or citizenship. Prioritize family reunification and productive members of society.
• Implementation: Streamline the green card and naturalization process by reducing backlogs and increasing the number of processing centers. Advocate for legislation that balances family-based immigration and employment-based immigration, capping extended family migration. Establish stricter timelines for adjudicating immigration applications to prevent long waits.
• Expected Impact: A more efficient immigration system that reduces illegal immigration by offering realistic, legal alternatives. Family reunification while maintaining labor market stability. Less strain on immigration courts and detention facilities.

3. Implement a Mandatory E-Verify System

• Proposal: Require all employers to use the E-Verify system to check the legal status of their employees to ensure compliance with immigration laws and deter the hiring of undocumented workers.
• Implementation: Introduce legislation making E-Verify mandatory nationwide, with fines for non-compliance. Provide incentives for small businesses to transition into using the E-Verify system through federal grants or tax credits. Conduct educational campaigns to help employers understand and comply with E-Verify requirements.
• Expected Impact: Greater accountability for businesses hiring only legal workers. Reduction in the employment of undocumented workers, reducing illegal immigration incentives. Positive economic impact in states like Mississippi, where industries such as manufacturing and construction rely on a legal workforce.

4. Support Local Law Enforcement’s Role in Immigration

• Proposal: Enhance cooperation between federal immigration agencies and local law enforcement to ensure the timely identification and deportation of individuals involved in criminal activities and residing illegally.
• Implementation: Provide federal grants to local law enforcement agencies to enhance training on immigration laws. Establish clear protocols for cooperation between federal ICE agents and local police in Mississippi and other states. Support legislation that provides local agencies with additional resources to identify and remove criminal immigrants.
• Expected Impact: Safer communities through the removal of criminal illegal immigrants. Local law enforcement empowered to assist in upholding immigration laws, without overburdening their existing responsibilities. Increased trust in the immigration system as law enforcement and federal agencies work in tandem.

5. Prioritize the Removal of Illegal Criminal Immigrants

Expected Impact: Enhanced public safety by removing dangerous individuals from communities in Mississippi and across the U.S. Reduced pressure on the criminal justice system by efficiently deporting convicted illegal immigrants rather than keeping them in domestic prisons. Improved coordination between federal and local law enforcement agencies, fostering a more secure environment in communities. Clear message that criminal behavior by illegal immigrants will not be tolerated, reinforcing the rule of law and national security.

Proposal: Establish a national priority for the identification, apprehension, and deportation of illegal immigrants who have committed serious crimes. This includes expanding resources for ICE and federal-local law enforcement collaboration to remove individuals posing a threat to public safety.

Implementation: Introduce legislation that mandates the deportation of illegal immigrants convicted of violent crimes, drug trafficking, gang involvement, and human trafficking. Expand programs like “Secure Communities” that help local law enforcement agencies identify illegal immigrants in their custody by cross-referencing their fingerprints with federal immigration databases.

Drawing on her financial background, Sarah advocates for reducing government waste and cutting unnecessary spending. She supports policies that streamline state and federal programs, ensuring they operate efficiently and without duplication. Her experience managing the financial side of a healthcare practice for over a decade taught her the value of balancing costs while delivering high-quality services, a lesson she believes can be applied to government operations at both the state and national levels.

To promote fiscal responsibility, Sarah would push for a balanced budget, reducing excessive regulation that stifles business growth, and fostering an environment that encourages private investment. By focusing on pro-growth policies, she believes Mississippi can strengthen its economy, increase job opportunities, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens—all while maintaining a strong commitment to financial discipline and accountability.

1. Implement Zero-Based Budgeting (ZBB) for State Agencies

• Implementation: Mandate that all state agencies start each fiscal year from a zero base, rather than assuming the previous year’s budget as a starting point. Each agency must justify every dollar requested, ensuring that all spending aligns with priorities and goals. Establish a state-level fiscal oversight committee to audit and ensure compliance with the new budgeting process.
• Expected Impact: This will reduce unnecessary spending and ensure that state funds are allocated only to essential programs, improving the efficiency and accountability of state government operations. Over time, it could lead to significant cost savings.

2. Enforce a Statewide Cap on Government Spending Growth

• Implementation: Introduce legislation to cap state government spending growth at the rate of inflation plus population growth. Any increase above this cap would require a two-thirds majority vote in the state legislature. Use the cap to force lawmakers to prioritize spending, cut inefficient programs, and redirect funds to areas that are in genuine need.
• Expected Impact: A cap on spending growth will prevent fiscal irresponsibility, promote long-term sustainability, and reduce the risk of budget deficits. It will encourage efficiency and discourage excessive taxation to cover wasteful expenditures.

3. Reduce State Debt by Paying Down Liabilities

• Implementation: Establish a dedicated “Debt Reduction Fund” where surplus state revenues, instead of being used for new programs, will be allocated to pay down Mississippi’s state debt and unfunded pension liabilities. Prioritize pension reform by transitioning new state employees to a hybrid or defined-contribution plan, gradually reducing the strain on the state’s finances.
• Expected Impact: By paying down state debt, Mississippi will reduce the burden of interest payments on taxpayers, freeing up funds for other priorities. Pension reform will protect retirees while ensuring long-term fiscal stability.

4. Create Public-Private Partnerships to Improve Infrastructure

• Implementation: Introduce legislation that incentivizes private investment in infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and broadband access, through public-private partnerships (PPPs). Streamline the regulatory approval process to make it easier for private firms to partner with the state on infrastructure development.
• Expected Impact: These partnerships will reduce the need for state spending on large-scale infrastructure projects while still ensuring that Mississippi’s infrastructure is modernized and maintained. Private investment will spur job creation and economic growth without overburdening the state budget.

5. Increase Transparency and Accountability in Government Spending

Expected Impact: This level of transparency will increase public trust in government, reduce the likelihood of corruption or wasteful spending, and allow citizens to hold elected officials accountable for their fiscal decisions. Over time, this will promote a culture of fiscal responsibility in Mississippi.

Implementation: Launch a comprehensive online transparency portal where all state and local government expenditures are made public, updated in real-time. Every taxpayer will have access to this portal to track how their money is being spent. Mandate regular audits of state programs, publishing the results publicly to highlight inefficiencies and areas for improvement.

In addition to the economic impact, enhancing national defense capabilities directly benefits Mississippi’s workforce by increasing opportunities for veterans and skilled workers. Ingalls Shipbuilding, the largest private employer in the state, is at the forefront of building state-of-the-art naval ships, from amphibious assault ships to destroyers for the U.S. Navy. By investing in defense technologies and expanding military readiness, we can create more jobs in industries like shipbuilding, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. This not only ensures the security of our nation but also strengthens Mississippi’s economy, providing our skilled workers with meaningful careers and boosting growth in key sectors.

Moreover, a stronger national defense ensures Mississippi remains resilient in the face of emerging threats. Cybersecurity, military technology, and border protection are all areas where Mississippi can play a leading role in shaping the future of national security. Ingalls Shipbuilding, as a key defense contractor, is critical to maintaining naval superiority, ensuring the U.S. Navy has the ships it needs to safeguard our interests across the globe. By advocating for defense spending and innovation, we protect not only our state but also our nation’s interests. A safer, more secure country benefits all Americans, and Mississippi’s unique contributions, through shipbuilding and beyond, make it a critical player in that effort.

Improving national defense also aligns with the values of freedom, security, and patriotism that are so deeply ingrained in the people of Mississippi. Our citizens, many of whom have served in the military, understand the importance of a strong defense and will continue to support efforts that keep America safe while ensuring Mississippi thrives economically. As your senator, Sarah will remain committed to championing these efforts and ensuring Mississippi’s voice is heard in the national conversation on defense policy.

1. Strengthening Military Installations in Mississippi

• Proposal: Increase federal investment in Mississippi’s military bases such as Keesler Air Force Base, Camp Shelby, and the Naval Construction Battalion Center to modernize infrastructure, enhance training capabilities, and expand operations.
• Implementation: Advocate for increased defense budget allocations for Mississippi’s military bases. Partner with military leadership to identify infrastructure improvements and technology upgrades. Secure federal grants for cybersecurity training programs at these installations.
• Expected Impact: Strengthened military readiness with modernized facilities and cutting-edge technology. Creation of high-tech, defense-related jobs in Mississippi, bolstering the state’s economy. Enhanced ability of Mississippi’s bases to support national security missions and training.

2. Expanding Defense Manufacturing and Innovation

• Proposal: Boost Mississippi’s role in defense manufacturing by promoting the state as a hub for defense contractors and investing in R&D for military technology, particularly at the John C. Stennis Space Center and Ingalls Shipbuilding.
• Implementation: Push for tax incentives and regulatory reforms to attract defense contractors to Mississippi. Collaborate with Mississippi universities and defense companies on R&D initiatives focused on military technologies like unmanned systems, naval engineering, and advanced manufacturing. Secure Department of Defense (DoD) contracts for Mississippi firms.
• Expected Impact: Strengthened Mississippi’s defense industry, making the state a vital player in the national defense supply chain. Increased job creation in high-paying, advanced manufacturing and technology sectors. Enhanced innovation in military technology, benefiting U.S. military capabilities.

3. Enhancing International Defense Capabilities through Naval Strength

• Proposal: Leverage Mississippi’s Ingalls Shipbuilding as a key player in bolstering U.S. naval power to ensure global security and project American strength on the international stage. Promote the production of advanced naval vessels that enhance U.S. presence in critical areas such as the Indo-Pacific and the Arctic.
• Implementation: Advocate for expanded DoD contracts to Ingalls Shipbuilding for the construction of next-generation destroyers, amphibious assault ships, and unmanned naval vessels, prioritizing those designed for forward deployment in international waters. Work with international defense allies, such as NATO countries, to sell or co-produce naval vessels, ensuring both U.S. and allied naval forces maintain technological superiority. Establish apprenticeship and job-training programs at Ingalls Shipbuilding, ensuring Mississippi’s workforce remains prepared to meet the demands of increasing international naval production.
• Expected Impact: Strengthened U.S. naval presence in international hotspots, reinforcing America’s ability to counter growing threats from nations like China and Russia. Increased international partnerships and defense collaborations, boosting Mississippi’s shipbuilding industry and expanding its global footprint. Creation of thousands of high-skill, high-paying jobs in Mississippi, as well as an increase in shipbuilding expertise, making the state a global leader in defense manufacturing.

4. Enhancing Veteran Support Services

• Proposal: Provide comprehensive support to Mississippi’s veterans by expanding healthcare services, job training, and mental health resources for former military personnel.
• Implementation: Secure funding for additional Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities in Mississippi, focusing on rural areas. Partner with community colleges and vocational programs to offer job retraining for veterans in industries like cybersecurity and defense manufacturing. Launch mental health initiatives, particularly targeting PTSD and suicide prevention among veterans.
• Expected Impact: Improved quality of life for veterans, with better access to healthcare and job opportunities. A more skilled workforce that can transition into defense-related industries. A reduction in veteran homelessness and mental health crises.

5. Strengthening Cybersecurity in Defense

Expected Impact: Mississippi becomes a key player in protecting national defense assets from cyber threats. Creation of cybersecurity jobs, particularly in rural areas, providing new career opportunities. Strengthened resilience against cyberattacks on military and defense infrastructure.

Proposal: Position Mississippi as a leader in defense-related cybersecurity by establishing a state-based cybersecurity task force and investing in cybersecurity education at Mississippi universities.

Implementation: Secure federal funds for cybersecurity research at Mississippi institutions like Mississippi State University, University of Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Form a public-private partnership with Mississippi-based tech companies to bolster the state’s cybersecurity defenses and protect critical infrastructure. Implement cybersecurity workforce training programs, particularly for veterans and students.

Improving agriculture in Mississippi requires a focus on technological advancements, infrastructure, and education. Sarah supports investments in rural broadband to ensure that farmers have access to modern tools like precision farming technology, which can optimize crop yields and reduce costs. She believes that updating transportation infrastructure is crucial for efficiently moving products to markets and lowering the costs of goods. Additionally, she advocates for agricultural education and workforce training, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to keep Mississippi’s farming industry competitive.

Sarah also believes that reducing federal overreach and allowing more control at the state level will enable Mississippi farmers to make decisions that best suit their operations. She supports tax cuts and incentives for small family farms and local agribusinesses to encourage investment and innovation in sustainable farming practices. By prioritizing these initiatives, Sarah is committed to enhancing the long-term success of Mississippi’s agriculture sector while maintaining the state’s values of self-reliance and fiscal responsibility.

1. Expand Access to Agricultural Technology and Innovation

• Proposal: Promote investment in cutting-edge agricultural technologies, including precision farming, data analytics, and smart irrigation systems, through partnerships with private companies, universities, and local farmers.
• Implementation: Advocate for grants and tax incentives for farmers who adopt innovative technologies that enhance crop yields and efficiency. Work with Mississippi’s land-grant universities, like Mississippi State University, to expand agricultural research and development programs, making them accessible to small and mid-size farmers.
• Expected Impact: Increased efficiency and productivity for Mississippi farmers, leading to higher crop yields, reduced costs, and a more competitive position in national and global markets.

2. Enhance Rural Infrastructure for Better Market Access

• Proposal: Strengthen rural infrastructure, such as roads, transportation, and broadband internet, to improve farmers’ access to markets and modern agricultural practices.
• Implementation: Work with federal and state governments to prioritize rural infrastructure projects through public-private partnerships. Push for legislation that provides targeted funding for transportation routes that are vital to farming communities and broadband expansion for rural areas, which can help farmers access online resources and marketplaces.
• Expected Impact: Better access to markets for farmers, improved logistics for crop and livestock distribution, and enhanced use of digital tools that can boost efficiency and profitability.

3. Reduce Regulatory Burdens on Farmers

• Proposal: Simplify federal agricultural regulations and reduce the bureaucratic red tape that limits the ability of Mississippi farmers to operate efficiently.
• Implementation: Introduce or support legislation that streamlines agricultural regulations, focusing on environmental, labor, and land-use policies. Provide clear guidance to farmers on compliance while minimizing unnecessary administrative burdens.
• Expected Impact: Reduced costs and increased flexibility for farmers to manage their operations, leading to higher profitability and fostering innovation without sacrificing environmental stewardship.

4. Promote Agricultural Exports and Trade

• Proposal: Expand opportunities for Mississippi farmers to export their products to global markets, ensuring they can compete internationally.
• Implementation: Advocate for trade deals that benefit American agriculture, particularly those that open new markets for Mississippi crops like cotton, soybeans, and poultry. Work with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and trade organizations to provide training and resources for Mississippi farmers on export opportunities and compliance with international standards.
• Expected Impact: Increased demand for Mississippi-grown products, creating new revenue streams for farmers and stimulating the state’s agricultural economy.

​5. Strengthen Agricultural Education and Workforce Development

Expected Impact: A stronger, more skilled workforce that can support the evolving needs of the agricultural sector, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth for Mississippi’s farmers and rural communities.

Proposal: Invest in agricultural education and training programs to build a skilled workforce that can support the state’s agricultural sector in the future.

Implementation: Partner with Mississippi’s community colleges, universities, and vocational schools to expand agriculture-related programs and apprenticeships. Support federal funding for workforce development initiatives that focus on agriculture and related industries. Encourage youth participation in agricultural programs like 4-H and Future Farmers of America (FFA).

While prioritizing energy independence, she is also committed to protecting Mississippi’s natural beauty and environment. She believes that responsible stewardship of the state’s resources does not have to conflict with economic growth or energy development. By advocating for smart regulations that balance environmental concerns with the needs of industry, she supports measures that ensure clean air and water for future generations. This includes investing in sustainable energy technologies and encouraging the use of cleaner energy sources, while also preserving traditional energy jobs in sectors like oil and natural gas.

Sarah’s approach to achieving energy independence while respecting environmental factors is pragmatic and focused on common-sense solutions. She supports initiatives that encourage innovation in energy technologies and promote the expansion of both renewable energy and traditional energy production in a way that benefits all Mississippians. Her vision includes incentivizing private sector investments in energy infrastructure, reducing burdensome federal regulations that stifle growth, and empowering local governments and businesses to drive energy innovation. By doing so, Sarah believes Mississippi can be a leader in the nation’s energy future.

1. Promote Responsible Energy Production and Innovation

• Proposal: Encourage the growth of energy industries, including natural gas, oil, and renewable energy, while advocating for responsible regulations to protect Mississippi’s environment.
• Implementation: Advocate for tax incentives for companies investing in clean technology innovations in energy production. Support the expansion of natural gas infrastructure in Mississippi, while promoting investments in renewable energy like solar and biomass. Work with local universities and private companies to create research partnerships focused on developing cleaner, more efficient energy technologies.
• Expected Impact: Boost the state’s energy sector by creating jobs and attracting investments. Transition to a cleaner energy mix, reducing emissions over time while maintaining energy independence. Strengthen Mississippi’s position as an energy leader in the South, promoting sustainable energy growth.

2. Support Rural Electrification and Grid Modernization

• Proposal: Upgrade rural energy infrastructure, modernizing the grid and ensuring access to affordable, reliable electricity.
• Implementation: Push for federal funding and public-private partnerships to invest in modernizing Mississippi’s energy grid, particularly in rural areas. Promote smart grid technologies to increase energy efficiency and reduce outages. Ensure that rural communities benefit from expanded energy access, including renewable energy sources like solar farms.
• Expected Impact: Improved energy reliability for rural communities, reducing downtime during extreme weather events. Enhanced energy efficiency, leading to lower costs for consumers and fewer environmental impacts. Better integration of renewable energy into the grid, reducing reliance on older, less efficient power sources.

3. Incentivize Agricultural Sustainability and Carbon Capture

• Proposal: Promote agricultural policies that protect Mississippi’s farmland and incentivize sustainable farming practices, including carbon capture and conservation initiatives.
• Implementation: Propose tax credits and grants for farmers who adopt soil conservation techniques and precision agriculture technologies that reduce carbon emissions. Expand funding for research into carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, particularly those applicable to Mississippi’s unique landscape. Work with the agricultural sector to promote the use of renewable energy on farms, such as solar power and bioenergy.
• Expected Impact: Strengthened Mississippi agriculture by providing financial support for sustainable practices. Reduced carbon emissions through improved farming techniques and carbon capture projects. Greater resilience in Mississippi’s agricultural sector against the impact of climate change and environmental degradation.

4. Expand Coastal Protection and Flood Mitigation

• Proposal: Strengthen infrastructure along the Mississippi Gulf Coast to protect against hurricanes, flooding, and sea-level rise, while preserving natural coastal environments.
• Implementation: Advocate for federal grants and funding to support the construction of flood barriers, levees, and wetlands restoration projects. Partner with local governments and the private sector to develop sustainable development practices along the coast, ensuring that new construction is resilient against climate impacts. Support research and development in natural coastal protection strategies, such as restoring oyster reefs and wetlands to mitigate storm surge.
• Expected Impact: Reduced damage from hurricanes and flooding, protecting homes, businesses, and lives along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Preservation of Mississippi’s coastal ecosystems, promoting tourism and fishing industries. Long-term savings from preventing flood-related disasters through proactive infrastructure improvements.

5. Promote Energy Independence through Domestic Production

Expected Impact: Increased energy security for Mississippi and the U.S. through expanded domestic energy production. Creation of high-paying jobs in energy production, refining, and nuclear technology sectors. Reduced reliance on foreign energy sources, strengthening both the state and national economies.

Proposal: Increase Mississippi’s role in ensuring U.S. energy independence by supporting domestic oil, natural gas, and nuclear energy production.

Implementation: Support the development of nuclear energy as a clean, long-term power source for Mississippi, advocating for the construction of small modular reactors (SMRs). Promote policies that reduce regulatory burdens on oil and natural gas production while maintaining environmental safeguards. Advocate for investments in state-of-the-art refining and petrochemical facilities, increasing Mississippi’s capacity to process energy resources locally.

From her experience working on a $55 million multi-specialty real estate development, Sarah knows firsthand the challenges and opportunities involved in infrastructure projects. She believes in promoting public-private partnerships that reduce government waste and leverage private sector efficiency. By working with local governments and businesses, Sarah sees an opportunity to create tailored infrastructure solutions that address Mississippi’s unique needs without overburdening taxpayers. She advocates for targeted investments that maximize returns and serve both urban and rural communities.

Sarah understands the importance of prioritizing infrastructure legislation that supports long-term, sustainable growth while minimizing federal overreach. She believes that empowering states with more control over infrastructure decisions will allow for greater efficiency and accountability. Her approach would emphasize reducing unnecessary regulations and focusing on projects that have a clear return on investment. By ensuring that Mississippi’s infrastructure keeps pace with modern demands, Sarah is committed to building a stronger foundation for future generations, without compromising fiscal responsibility.

1. Expand Rural Broadband Access

• Proposal: Invest in public-private partnerships to expand broadband access in rural areas of Mississippi. Leverage state and federal funds, such as those available through the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Rural Digital Opportunity Fund, to ensure more residents can access high-speed internet.
• Implementation: Collaborate with private internet service providers to build necessary infrastructure. Offer tax incentives to providers willing to invest in underserved areas. Streamline permitting processes to encourage faster deployment of broadband infrastructure.
• Expected Impact: Improved access to broadband would enhance educational opportunities, facilitate telemedicine (especially crucial for rural healthcare access), and boost economic development by enabling businesses to operate more efficiently in remote areas.

2. Modernize Mississippi’s Roads and Bridges

• Proposal: Prioritize investment in repairing and upgrading critical roadways and bridges, with a focus on major highways and rural bridges that connect agricultural areas to urban markets. This could be funded through a mix of state bonds and federal matching funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
• Implementation: Create a transparent state-level infrastructure task force to assess and prioritize projects. Use public-private partnerships to fund larger projects while ensuring competitive bidding processes for contracts. Emphasize innovation by using new materials and technologies to reduce long-term maintenance costs.
• Expected Impact: Safer, more reliable transportation infrastructure would reduce vehicle repair costs for citizens, lower transportation costs for businesses (especially in agriculture), and create thousands of construction jobs, boosting the local economy.

3. Strengthen Ports and Waterways for Economic Growth

• Proposal: Invest in upgrading Mississippi’s ports and inland waterways, particularly the Mississippi River, to enhance the state’s role as a transportation hub for agricultural products, oil, gas, and manufacturing.
• Implementation: Secure federal and state funding for deepening port channels and upgrading loading facilities. Partner with private investors and companies that rely on river and ocean shipping to co-fund improvements. Implement dredging projects to maintain navigability and ensure that waterways can support increased traffic.
• Expected Impact: Improved port infrastructure would attract more shipping traffic, expand the state’s export capacity, and generate additional tax revenue. It would also create jobs in construction, logistics, and transportation, contributing to long-term economic growth.

4. Upgrade Water and Sewer Systems

• Proposal: Address Mississippi’s aging water and sewer infrastructure by targeting investments in cities and rural areas that have faced chronic issues, such as boil-water advisories and inadequate wastewater treatment. Use federal funds from the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) along with state resources.
• Implementation: Direct funds toward the most critical areas identified through engineering assessments. Encourage cost-effective upgrades through competitive contracts and performance-based funding. Facilitate public-private partnerships where private companies manage water infrastructure under strict state oversight.
• Expected Impact: Improved water and sewer systems would ensure safer drinking water, reduce public health risks, and attract businesses that require reliable water access. This would also prevent costly emergency repairs, saving taxpayers money in the long run.

5. Enhance Energy Infrastructure for Economic Growth

Expected Impact: A more robust energy infrastructure would support economic growth by reducing energy costs for businesses, attracting manufacturers to the state, and preventing costly blackouts. It would also create high-paying jobs in the energy sector and strengthen Mississippi’s competitiveness in attracting businesses.

Proposal: Improve Mississippi’s energy infrastructure by focusing on reliable, affordable energy sources. This would involve investing in natural gas pipelines and power grid upgrades to reduce power outages and attract energy-intensive industries, such as manufacturing.

Implementation: Streamline permitting processes for natural gas infrastructure projects. Collaborate with the private sector to modernize the grid, ensuring it can handle increased demand. Utilize state tax credits to encourage energy companies to invest in grid resilience, renewable energy, and cleaner natural gas production.