Former Jackson firefighter announces candidacy for mayor

JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - A former firefighter is throwing his hat in the ring to be the next mayor of Jackson.

Ken Wilson, 38, worked for the Jackson Fire Department for 10 years.

Saturday, he held a press conference on the steps of City Hall to announce his run.

The Jackson native says he wants to focus on improving crime, poverty, and the quality of life in the Capital City.

Number one, public safety, I think that’s going to be essential. We’re going to implement our plan to address public safety, the criminal element in this city,” Wilson said. “Clearly, the data tell us that we’re in dire strengths when it comes to the low number of officers. So I’m going to address that.”

Wilson also says he will focus on education and preparing students for the workforce.

As of now, he will face off against Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba, Wanda Evers (the daughter of Charles Evers), and west Jackson native Patty Patterson.

The deadline to qualify for this race is February. 6.

The primary election will be held on April 6th and the general election is on June 8th.

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