Mississippi Happenings

MS Happenings

MS Happenings is your go-to source for political news and events that matter to Mississippians. Hosted by Jim Newman and David Olds, this weekly podcast fills the gap left by traditional news coverage, ensuring that all corners of the Magnolia State—North Mississippi, the Delta, the Coast, and beyond—stay informed. We tackle the kitchen table issues that impact everyday life, from legislative decisions to local policies affecting communities statewide. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural town, Mississippi Happenings brings you the news you need, without the out-of-state distractions. Join us each week for insightful discussions, in-depth analysis, and a fresh perspective on the issues shaping Mississippi’s future. Stay informed. Stay engaged. Subscribe now to never miss an episode!

  1. 26 Oct

    A conversation with State Rep and Chairman of the MS Democratic Party Cheikh Taylor

    [EPISODE DESCRIPTION - Ready to publish]Mississippi is heading into a political and policy crossroads, and Chairman Chuck Taylor says the choices being made now could reshape the state for years. From redistricting battles and Medicaid expansion to data centers, the income tax rollback, and the future of Mississippi Democrats, this conversation pulls no punches. Co-hosts David Olds and Jim Newman sit down with Chairman Chuck Taylor, chair of the Mississippi Democratic Party and a state representative from District 38, for a blunt, wide-ranging look at the fights shaping the next election cycle. Taylor breaks down the numbers behind the Legislature, why minority representation is being squeezed, and how Democrats are trying to organize across all 82 counties before November. You’ll discover: Why redistricting is more than a map fight - and why Taylor says it could decide control at every level of Mississippi politicsHow special elections are changing the balance in the House and SenateWhy he believes Medicaid expansion is an urgent fix for hospitals, seniors, working families, and the state’s economyWhat the end of the state income tax could mean for Mississippi’s budget, infrastructure, and long-term stabilityWhy data centers may become the next major economic and environmental fight in the stateTaylor also weighs in on the youth courts controversy, the lack of transparency around the legislative process, and why he thinks voters need to be better informed long before Election Day. He argues that Mississippi can do better on clean air, clean water, hiring local graduates, and writing clawbacks into big corporate deals so communities actually benefit. The conversation closes with Taylor laying out his outlook on key races and the Democratic candidates he believes can change Mississippi’s future, including battles for Congress and the U.S. Senate. If you care about Mississippi politics, public policy, healthcare, or the real cost of decisions made under the Capitol dome, this episode gives you the inside story. Essential listening if you want to understand what is at stake in Mississippi right now and why 2026 could be a turning point.

About

MS Happenings is your go-to source for political news and events that matter to Mississippians. Hosted by Jim Newman and David Olds, this weekly podcast fills the gap left by traditional news coverage, ensuring that all corners of the Magnolia State—North Mississippi, the Delta, the Coast, and beyond—stay informed. We tackle the kitchen table issues that impact everyday life, from legislative decisions to local policies affecting communities statewide. Whether you live in a bustling city or a quiet rural town, Mississippi Happenings brings you the news you need, without the out-of-state distractions. Join us each week for insightful discussions, in-depth analysis, and a fresh perspective on the issues shaping Mississippi’s future. Stay informed. Stay engaged. Subscribe now to never miss an episode!