Several GOP leaders from Mississippi are heading to D.C. for Trump’s inauguration amid freezing temperatures and indoor changes
The ceremony is shifting indoors because of the freezing temperatures expected that day. Instead of the usual spot on the West Front of the Capitol, it’ll be held in the Capitol rotunda.
A good number of Mississippi Republican Party members, including some elected officials, will be there. Mike Hurst, the Mississippi GOP Chairman, and Executive Director Rance Bilbo confirmed they’ll attend.
Rance mentioned that important topics like border security, tax cuts, and energy independence are drawing a lot of Republicans to the event. Plus, it’s a big deal since Trump is the first Republican president to win the popular vote since 2004.
Attorney General Lynn Fitch and State Auditor Shad White are also on the guest list. Maryasa Lee, Fitch’s communications director, said she’s excited to attend and looks forward to working with the new administration on key policies for Mississippi.
White, who’s had some political back-and-forth with Fitch, expressed his support for Trump, calling him the greatest president of his lifetime.
As for Governor Tate Reeves, his office didn’t respond about his attendance. State Treasurer David McRae confirmed he won’t be there, and Secretary of State Michael Watson’s team said he’s out too.
Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann and House Speaker Jason White also won’t make it due to scheduling issues. Hosemann shared his excitement about Trump’s inauguration, seeing it as a fresh start for the nation.
In other news, former Medicaid director Drew Snyder is reportedly set to lead the Medicaid division at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services under Trump. Snyder recently left his position and joined a lobbying firm, and he’s been recognized for his work during the pandemic.
Lastly, President Biden plans to commute the sentences of 2,500 individuals serving long sentences for nonviolent drug offenses, which could impact around 250 people in Mississippi who are currently imprisoned for similar charges.
