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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?

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First, Zack and David dissect "an exercise in the absurd" as they recount the previous night's Democratic forum where Ward 5 Councilman Stephen Jones and County Supervisor Leroy Brooks spent more time trading barbs than discussing policy. The duo analyzes how these political heavyweights overshadowed other candidates while turning what should have been a substantive debate into what one audience member aptly described as "a comic strip."

Then, both Democrat mayoral candidates join us in studio for a heated discussion that reveals fundamental differences in their visions for Columbus. Brooks leverages his 41 years of experience and methodical approach, while Jones defends his council record and immediate action plans. Tensions flare as they debate city leadership structure, financial management, and the racial dynamics underlying Columbus politics.

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Zack and David discuss how Ward 2 councilman Joseph Mickens is not acting like a four term incumbent, especially considering his challengers. They also talk about Jason Spears' and Mary Beth Jeter's appearances at Columbus Exchange Club. And mayoral candidate Stephen Jones suggests borrowing money to finish the Amphitheater.

Golden Triangle Development LINK CEO Joe Max Higgins also joins the guys for a wide ranging discussion, including his take on Mickens' public suggestion that the city of Columbus doesn't need the LINK. Then Joe Max updates us on Aluminum Dynamics, the new CINCO Megasite and how tariffs may affect our local industries. Finally, the guys discuss the changing dynamics of where industry executives are choosing to live.

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Zack and David break down Tuesday night's mayoral debate between Leroy Brooks and Bill Strauss where both impressed the audience. The loser of the debate? A candidate who wasn't even there.

Then Rep. Rob Roberson - who many view as the face of the effort to move MSMS from Mississippi University for Women to Mississippi State University - joins us via Zoom from Jackson to discuss the future of the state's school for the academically gifted.

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What happens when a city's desire for modern connectivity clashes with concerns over its visual landscape? We tackle this pressing issue as we explore the drama surrounding AT&T's proposed 5G tower in Columbus. Despite meeting zoning requirements, the project faced significant pushback from the Planning Commission and City Council, culminating in Mayor Keith Gaskin's decisive vote against it. Listen as David and Zack unravel the political dynamics, the intricate decision-making process, and the broader implications for local governance and community development.

Meanwhile, Columbus' political scene is shaking up with the unexpected participation of independent candidates at a typically Democratic debate. Candidate Stephen Jones clashes with Democrat Chair Kabir Karriem over the logistics of the debate and says he can't attend.

From politics to performance, we shift gears to talk to Golden Triangle Theatre director Garrett Torbert about his group's upcoming plans, and we discuss the city's refusal to allow GTT to use the dormant Amphitheater. Join us as we advocate for its utilization, challenging city leaders by envisioning a more immediate vibrant future for the venue.

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Zack and David explore what seems to be a coordinated plan to move Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science from the campus of Mississippi University for Women to Mississippi State University. We also discuss misinformed councilmen and drama in Ward 2.