Residents of Mississippi will soon have opportunities to engage in several special elections aimed at filling recent legislative vacancies, with the possibility of additional elections down the line.

The state is currently facing these vacancies due to the recent passing of two legislators: Democratic Representative Charles Young, Jr. from Meridian, who passed away on December 19, and Republican Representative Andy Stepp from Bruce, who died on December 5. Additionally, Republican Senator Jenifer Branning from Philadelphia is set to take her seat on the Mississippi Supreme Court on January 6, creating a further vacancy in the state Senate.

Governor Tate Reeves announced on Friday that the special elections to fill the seats left by Young and Stepp are scheduled for March 25, with February 3 marking the cutoff for candidates to qualify for these elections. However, as Senator Branning has not yet formally relinquished her Senate position, a specific election date to fill her seat has not yet been established by the governor.

Since these special elections will occur in the spring of 2025, affected areas will face a period without legislative representation at the state Capitol during a significant portion of the upcoming legislative session.

In addition to these upcoming elections, municipal elections are also slated for this year, which may lead to further special elections to fill any additional vacant legislative roles.

Republican Representative Fred Shanks from Brandon has officially entered the mayoral race in his city, while Democratic Senator John Horhn from Jackson has put his name in for the mayoral position in the state capital.

Should either of these lawmakers secure victory in their mayoral campaigns, the governor will be tasked with organizing special elections to appoint their successors. The deadline for candidates to qualify for municipal positions is January 31.