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The political landscape of Columbus shifted dramatically during the recent primaries, with established figures falling to challengers who promised change. Most notably, Stephen Jones defeated political veteran Leroy Brooks in the Democratic mayoral primary, signaling voters' desire for fresh leadership despite Brooks out-raising Jones three-to-one.

Brooks's campaign strategy backfired as he leaned too heavily on past accomplishments, telling voters to "ask your father" about his contributions while promising miracle solutions. Meanwhile, Jones successfully cast himself as youthful and forward-thinking.

The election wasn't without bizarre incidents – a ballot box became unavailable when it was left in a repossessed vehicle, causing delays at one precinct and raising questions about election security. This sparked debate about whether Columbus has too many polling locations and how to balance accessibility with logistical efficiency.

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Campaign finance revelations and heated candidate exchanges dominate this eye-opening exploration of Columbus politics. The stark financial disparities between mayoral candidates—Leroy Brooks amassing nearly $30,000 to Stephen Jones' $11,000—sets the stage for a fascinating discussion about what money really means in local elections.

Zack and David analyze a viral Facebook post from an MSMS teacher. Her courageous decision to speak out has galvanized attention statewide, highlighting how students' perspectives (93% preferring to remain at MUW) have been largely ignored in decisions affecting their education.

The heart of the episode features an unfiltered conversation with Ward 2 candidates Joseph Mickens and Roderick Smith. Their contrasting approaches—Mickens leaning on his four terms of experience and infrastructure accomplishments versus Smith's vision of being "a bridge between youth and city officials"—perfectly capture the fundamental choice Columbus voters face: proven experience or fresh perspective?

Tensions rise when discussing absentee ballot practices, city finances, and the fractured relationship between council and mayor. Mickens boldly defends the city's financial position ($10 million in reserves) while addressing past controversies, including public confrontations with city employees. Smith counters with priorities focused on public safety and fostering unity between city and county leadership.

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A seismic shift is coming to Columbus as the MS Board of Education unanimously votes to recommend relocating Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science (MSMS) from Mississippi University for Women to Mississippi State University. With only legislative approval standing in the way, this decision threatens to leave a gaping hole in MUW's campus, where MSMS students currently represent 10% of the student population and 40% of residential students on campus.

Questions abound regarding the evaluation process that led to this decision, with MSU scoring 363 points to MUW's 304 on a mysterious rubric developed behind closed doors. Critics point to the fiscal absurdity of planning to invest money to improve MSMS facilities at MUW even as they prepare to abandon them. Most troubling to many is MUW President Nora Miller's apparent acquiescence, with her last-minute demand for increased fees from MSMS raising eyebrows about her true priorities.

The podcast also explores Ward 6 City Council candidate Jason Spears' vision for Columbus, as he emphasizes the need for better financial management, infrastructure improvements, and stronger relationships with county officials. Spears, drawing on his decade of school board experience and financial expertise, highlights drainage issues across Ward 6 neighborhoods and advocates for a more methodical approach to city growth and development projects like Burns Bottom.

Local politics took another turn as Joe Mickens lost his court challenge questioning opponent residencies in Ward 2, clearing the path for "Mrs. She She" O'Neil and Roderick Smith to remain on the ballot. With the MSMS decision now heading to the legislature and city elections approaching, Columbus stands at a crossroads that will determine its future for generations to come. Will our representatives fight to the last man, or will they negotiate terms of surrender as the "Babylonian invasion" continues?