Jackson Free Press

The city is already thick with speculation over who is jockeying to be Jackson's next mayor, even though the current mayor has vowed he will not resign.

Well-known city figures are already in the hunt.

Former Mayor Harvey Johnson Jr. has said that he would enjoy returning to the post. Even though he lost to Melton in the primary, with the new mayor taking 63 percent of the vote in a low turnout, Johnson said he wants to pick up where he left off July 4.

"I know we'll be up against more than we left with, but I'm willing to finish the work I began if the people tell me to," Johnson said. "There's so much left to be done."

Former State Fiscal Officer Gary Anderson said local businesspeople have approached him for a possible run for the mayor's seat. Anderson lost a close election for state treasurer in 2003 against 29-year-old Republican Tate Reeves. Since that time, he has worked as a lobbyist and consultant.

"I've heard from a number of people in the business community because they're concerned about the direction the city of Jackson is heading. The calls I got are people looking for stability and somebody who knows some things about economic development, but we haven't made any decisions yet. I'm not trying to prejudge the situation, but we'll continue to follow it," Anderson said.

Critics accuse Ward 2 Councilman Leslie McLemore of already "running for mayor." McLemore said it was too early to make a decision regarding running for the office.

"Mayor Melton is still the mayor, the trial is still forthcoming, so who knows?" McLemore said. "I'm not crossing that bridge until I get to it. But I must admit a number of people have made inquiries."

McLemore, who has been a vocal critic of Melton, distrusts the executive branch of government, and while it could be argued that the most virtuous king is an unwilling king, McLemore may find it difficult to take on the mantle of authority he has long criticized.

Other council members are also testing the waters—or having the water tested for them. Supporters have kicked around the idea of Council President Ben Allen running.

"Allen's never disappointed me as my councilman, and I think he's the smartest guy in that room," said North Jackson resident William "Bill" Smith. "I think he should've run for mayor years ago."

Allen, despite his loyal base in Ward 1, may not be viable as a candidate because of city demographics—Allen is the only white Republican on the council in a city that votes Democratic.

Some African Americans have a lingering distrust of Allen. In 1997, Allen addressed a "capacity" crowd at the Council of Conservative Citizens, an offshoot of the racist White Citizen's Council.

Allen later told the JFP that he didn't know what the Council of Conservative Citizens was all about. "I knew it was a conservative group," he said. "I knew damn near nothing about politics when I got involved. … I would not now or ever be a member of it."

It is in doubt whether Allen even wants the hassle of running for the mayor's office. He did not return calls to the JFP this week for confirmation, but he has shown mild reluctance in running for his own council position in the past. Running for a citywide office would doubtless be a new aggravation for the busy businessman.

On the other hand, numerous Jackson voters and politicos have approached Ward 6 Councilman Marshand Crisler regarding a possible run, though he claims he is focused on being a councilman for now.

"I would have to wait and see what happens," Crisler said. "I mean, the mayor's office still has the mayor in it, and there's no telling what'll happen in the next few weeks. Right now, it would be best to just try to work with the current mayor before making any announcements."

Crisler, who works for the Hinds County Sheriff's Office, has divulged more readiness to run for Sheriff Malcolm McMillin's seat whenever McMillin is ready to admit he no longer wants it, but Crisler appears to be grooming for a run at the mayor's office, whether or not he's open about it.

"Marshand is young, energetic and open to ideas, and he's not so stubborn. I think he understands the need for solidarity and unity, which is what this city needs right now," said Jackson attorney and business owner Isaac Byrd. "This city needs unity among the races and different groups, and it needs a sense of integrity and solidarity and energy. Crisler comes from a family of integrity. He's really one of the first political figures (running for the mayor's office) in a long time who's locally grown."

Byrd, who supported Harvey Johnson during his successful elections but not in his losing bid against Melton, pointed out that Crisler has good approval ratings across the city. The Iraq War veteran also gained name recognition from his controversial tenure as council president, when he frequently clashed publicly with Melton. He has been making a point to hold meetings in other city wards, selling the good points of the upcoming $150 million school bond issue—and further making a name for himself in the process.

Byrd calls Crisler "squeaky clean," partly because he has not owned a business.

"There's a reason that (Illinois Sen. Barak) Obama could win in a 33-percent African-American state. He was a professor. He had owned no businesses and done no deals. No nothing. You can't run a business without something happening to you. Somebody would have worked for him who had messed up, that he had taken responsibility for. It's just hard to get people who own and run businesses to be squeaky-clean. Every business owner comes with baggage."

Previous Commentsshow

Interesting about Gary Anderson, huh? One could certainly imagine supporting someone not directly connected to city government presently, or recently, huh?

DonnaLadd

Sep 27 2006

Oh, yes. I had no idea Anderson was considering entering the race, but if he decides to, he's the frontrunner as far as I'm concerned. I thought it was a travesty that he wasn't elected state treasurer. Cheers, TH

Tom Head

Sep 27 2006

(...once I knew who he was, that is. Still bummed out that the MDP didn't promote him.)

Tom Head

Sep 27 2006

When I hear: “I’ve heard from a number of people in the business community because they’re concerned about the direction the city of Jackson is heading. The calls I got are people looking for stability and somebody who knows some things about economic development, but we haven’t made any decisions yet. I’m not trying to prejudge the situation, but we’ll continue to follow it,” Anderson said. I get worried... That sure sounds like the words of the same group of business leaders who supported Melton. Just saying... McLemore may not be a bad choice.

pikersam

Sep 27 2006

Yeah, I see your point, Pike. But it's hard to argue that Gary Anderson is a Frank Melton. Maybe the businesspeople have learned a lesson or two about "loose cannons." And I hear Anderson's pretty good with budgets for one thing. I'm certainly not saying I'd support him; I have no idea who I would support at this point (although it amuses me no end that so many people are talking about who the *JFP* is going to support; glad it's a topic of cocktail talk—but I hate to tell you folks that we have no idea. One thing at a time.) However, I think Gary Anderson is an interesting name. And I'm not completely averse to going outside the city's inner political circles to support someone. However, Anderson almost seems too low-key to me—which is one thing that got Johnson in trouble (unfairly, I believe). But, with the mess we're facing, we might need someone more vocal. In other words, I have no idea. Truthfully, I think either McLemore or Crisler would likely make a good mayor. Johnson was a good mayor (despite the Melton machine's hype), but I'm not sure he would heal the mess we're in right now. And I don't know what kind of mayor Anderson would make; that would take more research. So, if anyone is wondering, that's what I'm thinking about the mayor's seat. Anyone who says otherwise or tries to pin our support on anyone is outright lying. But we appreciate the attention. ;-)

DonnaLadd

Sep 27 2006

I like Mr. Crisler. He is a good man. Comes from a good family. Is someone I would definitely want in a foxhole with me in battle. I think however he is just not qualified to be mayor yet. Same goes for McLemore. Good honorable men. However, this is the type of job that calls for an executive. I don't want a professor, an academic, or someone who has no idea as to how businesses operate in order to grow, attract jobs, and improve the city. Mr. Anderson would be better qualified than Mr. Crisler or Dr. McLemore. My whole philosophy comes down to this: hire the resume. The job calls for managing a huge budget, dealing with customers (voters) and government relations as well as improving the business climate. A couple of terms as a city councilman, teaching in a classroom, joining the right groups does not qualify one for mayor. I don't want someone who "deserves" the job or who joined the right groups. Beverly Hogan would be my choice as I've said before but she is probably not interested in running. I also take issue with Mr. Byrd. Barak was elected in the fashion he described however, that was still for a legislative job. If a Senator learns on the job and makes mistakes, he usually can't do as much damage as a mayor or governor who is learning on the job and has executive responsibilities. I think Malcolm White would not be a bad choice. Con Maloney. They have both given alot to Jackson and worked with all groups. LeRoy Walker? He no longer owns McDonald's. Is it something he is interested in? It will be interesting.

Kingfish

Sep 27 2006

I hear you, chimneyville. I pretty much feel the same way, considering the outright lies that are being told out there right now.

DonnaLadd

Sep 27 2006

Oops, right screen on that post. Will delete later.

DonnaLadd

Sep 27 2006

I don't see any good choices right now. You need someone who can break political eggs and have people lining up for scrambled eggs.

Ironghost

Sep 27 2006

I get the feeling a group of business power brokers, who supported Melton, are in a bind right now trying to figure out how to ensure their deals get done - their way, for their friends. What else explains the blind loyalty in light of all that's happened in one year? Anderson may be the kind of person they would want in place to make sure all goes as planned. If the future of development holds for Jackson what was in the paper, and what Councilman Allen has been preaching, then there stands to be a lot of money made in real estate, gov't contracts, constuction, and parking! I'm of the mind set that it is better to spread the wealth around and put as many people to work as possible. Not just hand everything over to a few companies based on size or monetary contributions (cough, cough, kickbacks). I don't think these power brokers have the same philosophy as I do? And see, Kingfish likes him over the other choices already. Proof enough for me! ;-) I would think that by trying to make sure people didn't know he was black when he ran for treasurer may cause trouble for him locally. I would think that a seasoned local candidate would exploit that fact and use it against him. But, I'm just speculating. I have no real reason to see this as anything more than a theory.

pikersam

Sep 27 2006

You could always call Speed and ask him: he's backed Johnson and Melton.

Ironghost

Sep 27 2006

But, with the mess we're facing, we might need someone more vocal Donna, remember when I tried to "recruit" you for the job a while back? Think about it. :) Todd? Brian Johnson? Ali...oh wait, she lives in McMadison.

golden eagle

Sep 27 2006

How 'bout Mayor McCheese?

GLB

Sep 27 2006

Y'know, I'd vote for Donna. Seriously. It'd be an unusual candidacy, to say the least, but we could certainly do worse than an alternative newsweekly editor-in-chief with a master's from Columbia and a Village Voice stint under her belt. No formal experience in public administration, but that's what the mayoral staff is for--all we need from an executive is good judgment. She'd be crazy to want the job, though. Ha-ha crazy, not Melton crazy, but crazy nevertheless. As far as the announced candidates go... I'm kind of torn between Anderson and McLemore. I think Johnson would do a fine job but has already served his two terms and is damaged goods, politically. I don't like the idea of Crisler right now, but maybe by 2009 I'd feel differently about him. Of course, all of this is assuming that Melton either does the right thing and resigns or does the stupid thing and gets booted from office. Either works for me, but I'd like a new mayor soon, please. Cheers, TH

Tom Head

Sep 28 2006

Gary Anderson. That's a name I haven't heard in a while. Hmmm. "I would think that by trying to make sure people didn't know he was black when he ran for treasurer may cause trouble for him locally. I would think that a seasoned local candidate would exploit that fact and use it against him. But, I'm just speculating. I have no real reason to see this as anything more than a theory." - Pike I agree that Anderson was the most "stealthy" candidate for public office I've seen in some time. I didn't even know that he was running until a month before the election. I suspect he was hedging his bets that a African-American could be elected to statewide office in Mississippi. I don't think that would be a factor in running for office in a majority black city like Jackson, and I believe he would be much more vocal and visible upfront to counter any charges stemming from his failed run for State Treasurer. Depending on the fallout from Melton, the people may be ready for a candidate with more governmental experience. I've heard mixed opinions about Anderson from his time with the State, most of it split down racial lines... positive from AAs, negative from whites. I think he would be more fiscally responsible and might be the person to get the City back on more secure financial footing.

Jeff Lucas

Sep 28 2006

I believe and have always believed that the decision to not promote Anderson was the Mississippi Democratic Party's. If it was in fact Anderson's strategy to run so that nobody knew he was black (and 69 percent didn't know who he was at all, according to poll data), then (a) that was spineless, (b) that made no sense given the higher Republican affiliation in the state, and (c) he should have very least stepped in at the end, after the race, to reassure everyone that his loss as an incognito candidate should not be seen as a sign of black candidates' non-viability in statewide races, since in practical terms he would have been not really running as a black candidate, but rather as a mystery candidate. But I don't think that's the case, because if you look at the same poll that had 69 percent of respondents not knowing who Anderson was, 68 percent also didn't know who Reeves was. I think the bottom line is that nobody paid much attention to the treasurer's race--which is how a 29-year-old bank employee ended up as the Republican nominee anyway--and Democratic officials should be kicking themselves around the horsetrack for not getting behind the much more qualified Anderson. Cheers, TH

Tom Head

Sep 28 2006

I've heard mixed opinions about Anderson from his time with the State, most of it split down racial lines... positive from AAs, negative from whites. Could you be more specific about what kinds of criticism you've heard from whites, and what blacks have praised him for? Best, Tim

Tim Kynerd

Sep 28 2006

Where did I support Allen for mayor? I don't recall mentioning him. Gary is a smart man, very nice guy, a class act. Unfortunately for this job and a campaign, he might be too nice.

Kingfish

Sep 28 2006

Thanks, y'all. But allow me to make it perfectly clear: I'm not running for mayor. This year.

DonnaLadd

Sep 28 2006

(That's a joke, but I take great pleasure in thinking that I just caused heart palpitations across the N-JAM region of Mississippi.)

DonnaLadd

Sep 28 2006

Could you be more specific about what kinds of criticism you've heard from whites, and what blacks have praised him for? Mostly non-specific charges that are so typical whenever an AA takes over a traditionally "white" position, that its being mismanaged or whatnot as though the previous positionholders were sooo much better. But nothing credible.

Jeff Lucas

Sep 28 2006

Crisler sounds like the best choice. young, energetic, knows jackson's upside and the underbelly. Johnson getting back in office scares me. I may leave. that fella's stiff as an old man od'in on viagra. In fact, anybody but that guy

trusip

Sep 28 2006

Yeah, that attitude got us the Melton Machine. ;-) Agreed about Crisler energy. That and his outspokenness work in his favor in this city—and he was critical of Melton's tactics—maybe not enough so—from the beginning, which scores him points with me and so many people. You want a mayor who is willing to stand up for the rights of the people even when it's politically iffy. McLemore gets points there, too, of course. Frankly, if Johnson would be more outspoken now about the future of the city, I'd be more likely to consider him.

DonnaLadd

Sep 28 2006

I support Crisler. While's he no political heavyweight, he's certainly not a novice either, and I think he has just enough experience in city politics to recognize the areas that require detailed attention from the executive branch, such as infrastructure, finances, and business development. He has enough RESPECT FOR THE LAW and law enforcement to let the JPD be run by a strong police chief without interference or grandstanding from the Mayor's office. I also believe he would work with the County and the D.A. as partners to get some reform in our local justice system, not with sound bites and lies but with real dialogue. Despite his youth, he is level-headed, energetic, and positive about Jackson and its future, and I believe he would work hard to improve ALL of Jackson, including the south Jackson area which has stagnated for years but is ripe for development. He also appears to have a great deal of support in his ward across racial lines which should translate citywide. I was a little disappointed a couple of weeks ago in his eagerness about running if Melton resigned, but I'm over it now and ready to work hard for him if he chooses to run.

Jeff Lucas

Sep 28 2006

Mostly non-specific charges that are so typical whenever an AA takes over a traditionally "white" position, that its being mismanaged or whatnot as though the previous positionholders were sooo much better. But nothing credible. OK, thanks, no credible criticisms, then. What about the praise from the other side? Anything credible there? Best, Tim, moving soon and trying to cram in a crash course in Jackson politics.... ;-)

Tim Kynerd

Sep 28 2006

I'm going with that old dude on the council. What's his name? I still like Johnson but you gotta worry about a fella who had it all and blew it.

Ray Carter

Sep 28 2006

I still like Johnson but you gotta worry about a fella who had it all and blew it. Hmmm, well said, Ray. I tend to agree with you, sadly.

DonnaLadd

Sep 28 2006

Gary Anderson is the most qualified of the "bunch." He has a vast amount of knowledge about how to run a governmental entity and is a gentleman whose quiet determination would bode well for our City. I would vote for him in a heartbeat!!

realtime

Sep 28 2006

While Crisler is out for number "One." He is shallow, grandstands too much and is does not really know what is needed to run a City. Elect him and you will get a watered down version of Melton.

realtime

Sep 28 2006

realtime, if he let his aunt and father pick his admin for him, Crisler would not flop but like I said, hire the resume. What is there on his resume that qualifies him to run an entity with a budget in the tens or hundreds of millions of dollars? What expertise does he have in economic development? What does he know about meeting a payroll and what businesses face in dealing with the city. Does he have alot of expertise actually working in government? If you can answer those in the affirmative for Mr. Crisler and Mr. McLemore, I'll vote for either one of them.

Kingfish

Sep 28 2006

First of all Leland Speed has never supported Johnson. Secondly, Johnson didn't blow it. It has been stated frequently, the media beat Johnson. The media perpetuated the whole notion of what Johnson didn't do instead of what he did do. His accomplishments were seldom if ever acknowledged by the media. And as far as this stiff thing goes. Johnson is a classy, sophisticated, educated, man. The question is not is he stiff but is he qualified? The answer to that is yes, very qualified. I would rather have a stiff qualified mayor, than a loose unqualified one. Look what looseness (sp) has got us now!

maad

Sep 28 2006

I also think that 2 or 3 terms is enough in the job.

Kingfish

Sep 28 2006

As far as Chrisler being unqualified, he has a Masters Degree in Public Administration and he is an Officer in the National Guard. All the fields named above that require specialized expertise, only mean to me that we must choose someone who will have a well qualified team in place to actually 'run' the City. The Mayor must have a vision of where he wants to lead the City and the drive to take us there.

ChrisCavanaugh

Sep 30 2006

It is going to be very interesting who will take over the reins of the city after Frank is gone. Whoever it is will have their work cut out for him/her. As far as having the ability to hit the ground running, I'll give that edge to Johnson. Charisma- the edge goes to Crisler. Nice guy-Anderson hands down. A different look-McLemore Mayby we could elect them all and let them work as a well oiled unit.

rufus

Oct 1 2006

Chris, being an expert in the classroom is no subsitute for experience int he real world and production. Would you hire for a CEO of a $200 million company a guy who was a cop and had an MBA but no experience at all in running that size of a company or much experience in its own industry?

Kingfish

Oct 1 2006

what about skipp coon

yaya

Oct 1 2006

none of the aformentioned runner-ups are worthy of my vote. maybe Lance Bass could do a better job? He could at least unify us all since most communities tend to do better when gays move in.

laughter

Oct 3 2006

maybe Lance Bass could do a better job? I wouldn't wish that headache on Lance. He's a good kid. Besides, he's a Clintonian. :D

Lady Havoc

Oct 3 2006

I'm still going with the old dude on the city council. I know he won't be trying to play police chief or seeking attention. He will probaly hire good folks to do the various jobs, and would likely be angered about anyone continiously waking him up over some bullcrap. In other words, he would demand a good work product and accountability. He would do the x-principal thing. All the x-principal I had didn't take any stuff from people. Everyone else excepting McLemore and Barrett would probably seek needless attention for themselves.

Ray Carter

Oct 3 2006

mclemore,barrett,crisler, johnson and anderson are all good people whose sensibilities towards governmental administration are roughly the same.to me each of them are part of the "good people" of jackson who are always there when our local institutions need support. i can promise you that their respective comportments are such that none would embarrass you as mayor.any of them would do an exemplary job. what we dont need is another loony preaching a bunch of elmer gantry style hype.lets all be on the lookout for the next bullshit artist who thinks that he or she can pick up from what a vanquished melton leaves behind.watch out for a man name evans!

chimneyville

Oct 3 2006

I'm confused. When melton began doing all of his "crazy stuff," members of this "blogging family," to include Donna Ladd, posted blogs either admitting the "mistake" of voting for melton or acknowledging the undisputed accomplishments of Johnson and how crime was decreasing and the positive direction that the City was heading. Now we are printing comments by Issac Byrd who "WAS" a Johnson supporter and who now serves as an authority on Crisler. My question is: Who is Issac Byrd and what actually caused the disconnect in his support of Johnson? Could "Stubborn" mean "HONEST" - Unwilling to be bought or owned by financial powers - a quality that a whole lot of people have problems with? (If I contribute - I expect you to do what I say and when I say it). Could "YOUNG" mean seasoned and aging with dignity and respect for others? Cound "ENERGETIC" describe a man who worked from sun up to sun down and produced fruits of his labor for this City? (Remember most, if not all, of the recent ribbon-cutting ceremonies were the results of Johnson's efforts. Let's not do to Johnson, if the Office of Mayor is vacated and if he decides to seek re-election, what so many of us have accused the CL of doing. How soon we all forget; however, it was the spins and the under-reporting of the positive things that were happening in Jackson. ...and Byrd, "unity among the races will only come when we become "honest Abes and Honest Johnsons" and stop using people for our own needs. "The man in the mirror" experiential will be the best instrument for healing this city and we must do all we can to avoid the chameleon characteristics which will serve only to further divide and defeat us.

justjess

Oct 3 2006

PS. While everyone else, including melton's supportors, have been attacking and chewing him alive, Former Mayor Johnson, has not attacked, criticized or disparaged melton in any way. This is the behavior and thought process of a man with the spirit for UNIFICATION!

justjess

Oct 3 2006

Fantastic comment, Justjess. I know Isaac well, and he certainly was a staunch supporter of Johnson at one time. It's quite honorable that Johnson hasn't said look at what y'all chose instead of me. However, I still wonder how a person can so wrongly read the imprint or message the people were getting from him? Keeping the job requires even a good and honest man staying connected to the majority of the people. How else can you know what they think of your performance?

Ray Carter

Oct 3 2006