1 00:02:37,891 --> 00:02:38,793 We all need to do that didn’t 2 00:02:38,793 --> 00:02:46,400 We all need to do that didn’t we. Help us I just share it. I 3 00:02:46,400 --> 00:02:50,037 we. Help us I just share it. I got here. 4 00:02:54,641 --> 00:02:56,677 Thank you all for being here 5 00:02:56,677 --> 00:02:59,714 Thank you all for being here today I sincerely appreciate 6 00:02:59,714 --> 00:03:01,182 today I sincerely appreciate all that everyone in the media 7 00:03:01,182 --> 00:03:03,984 all that everyone in the media is doing in our fight against 8 00:03:03,984 --> 00:03:06,687 is doing in our fight against Covid- 19. We also know that as 9 00:03:06,687 --> 00:03:09,423 Covid- 19. We also know that as we fight this pandemic that 10 00:03:09,423 --> 00:03:11,825 we fight this pandemic that we’re going to continue to 11 00:03:11,825 --> 00:03:14,094 we’re going to continue to update you on our numbers. what 12 00:03:14,094 --> 00:03:16,663 update you on our numbers. what we are doing to respond and I 13 00:03:16,663 --> 00:03:17,297 we are doing to respond and I think that’s critically 14 00:03:17,297 --> 00:03:18,498 think that’s critically important and I’m glad doctor 15 00:03:18,498 --> 00:03:19,700 important and I’m glad doctor Dobbs once again is with us 16 00:03:19,700 --> 00:03:22,136 Dobbs once again is with us today and we will certainly 17 00:03:22,136 --> 00:03:23,136 today and we will certainly continue to talk about Cohen 18 00:03:23,136 --> 00:03:27,074 continue to talk about Cohen 19, but I also want to begin. 19 00:03:27,074 --> 00:03:27,174 19, but I also want to begin. Today’s 20 00:03:27,174 --> 00:03:28,942 Today’s briefing by addressing 21 00:03:28,942 --> 00:03:32,112 Today’s briefing by addressing another one of Mississippi’s 22 00:03:32,112 --> 00:03:33,848 another one of Mississippi’s crisis after the election, but 23 00:03:33,848 --> 00:03:35,115 crisis after the election, but before I assumed office, 24 00:03:35,115 --> 00:03:37,617 before I assumed office, Mississippi was rot by violent 25 00:03:37,617 --> 00:03:40,187 Mississippi was rot by violent riots in our prison. Five 26 00:03:40,187 --> 00:03:41,855 riots in our prison. Five inmates died violently in a 27 00:03:41,855 --> 00:03:44,691 inmates died violently in a single week in some escaped in 28 00:03:44,691 --> 00:03:47,127 single week in some escaped in the chaos, It was partially 29 00:03:47,127 --> 00:03:48,829 the chaos, It was partially horrifying for me and many 30 00:03:48,829 --> 00:03:50,230 horrifying for me and many others across the state and 31 00:03:50,230 --> 00:03:52,699 others across the state and across this country I 32 00:03:52,699 --> 00:03:54,200 across this country I personally visited parchment 33 00:03:54,200 --> 00:03:56,904 personally visited parchment and other prisons. Throughout 34 00:03:56,904 --> 00:04:00,207 and other prisons. Throughout our system, this put a 35 00:04:00,207 --> 00:04:02,710 our system, this put a spotlight on our systemic 36 00:04:02,710 --> 00:04:04,144 spotlight on our systemic problems at the Department of 37 00:04:04,144 --> 00:04:06,614 problems at the Department of Corrections. It was a major 38 00:04:06,614 --> 00:04:08,783 Corrections. It was a major National story. I said From the 39 00:04:08,783 --> 00:04:11,318 National story. I said From the beginning, I have no intention 40 00:04:11,318 --> 00:04:13,620 beginning, I have no intention of hiding our problems. I have 41 00:04:13,620 --> 00:04:16,791 of hiding our problems. I have every intention of fixing our 42 00:04:16,791 --> 00:04:19,259 every intention of fixing our problems. Our prison system is 43 00:04:19,259 --> 00:04:20,227 problems. Our prison system is broken, but we are doing 44 00:04:20,227 --> 00:04:24,164 broken, but we are doing everything we can to repair it. 45 00:04:24,164 --> 00:04:26,266 everything we can to repair it. First. We closed unit 29 at 46 00:04:26,266 --> 00:04:27,134 First. We closed unit 29 at Parchman the most notorious 47 00:04:27,134 --> 00:04:31,104 Parchman the most notorious section in ground zero. This 48 00:04:31,104 --> 00:04:32,940 section in ground zero. This specific crisis, we have worked 49 00:04:32,940 --> 00:04:34,174 specific crisis, we have worked to raise pay for our 50 00:04:34,174 --> 00:04:36,176 to raise pay for our correctional officers. We’ve 51 00:04:36,176 --> 00:04:37,978 correctional officers. We’ve done thorough investigative 52 00:04:37,978 --> 00:04:40,147 done thorough investigative work to uncover waste and abuse 53 00:04:40,147 --> 00:04:44,751 work to uncover waste and abuse by staff that work has had an 54 00:04:44,751 --> 00:04:46,286 by staff that work has had an impact. I want to personally, 55 00:04:46,286 --> 00:04:48,556 impact. I want to personally, Thank Commissioner Taylor and 56 00:04:48,556 --> 00:04:49,890 Thank Commissioner Taylor and others who stepped in the gap 57 00:04:49,890 --> 00:04:53,026 others who stepped in the gap to help in that effort. I also 58 00:04:53,026 --> 00:04:55,094 to help in that effort. I also wanna personally thank Kerri 59 00:04:55,094 --> 00:04:56,831 wanna personally thank Kerri Mcdonald and Jaworski Mallet 60 00:04:56,831 --> 00:04:58,298 Mcdonald and Jaworski Mallet two current employees that have 61 00:04:58,298 --> 00:04:59,599 two current employees that have really stepped up at the 62 00:04:59,599 --> 00:05:03,638 really stepped up at the Department. They’ve made a 63 00:05:03,638 --> 00:05:05,372 Department. They’ve made a difference. I’ve also said from 64 00:05:05,372 --> 00:05:06,974 difference. I’ve also said from the beginning that more than 65 00:05:06,974 --> 00:05:08,442 the beginning that more than just funding or politics or 66 00:05:08,442 --> 00:05:10,744 just funding or politics or anything else, Mississippi’s 67 00:05:10,744 --> 00:05:13,780 anything else, Mississippi’s prison system had a leadership 68 00:05:13,780 --> 00:05:15,916 prison system had a leadership crisis in the first few days of 69 00:05:15,916 --> 00:05:17,918 crisis in the first few days of my term, I had the opportunity 70 00:05:17,918 --> 00:05:20,287 my term, I had the opportunity to deliver a state of the State 71 00:05:20,287 --> 00:05:21,755 to deliver a state of the State address and lay out a mission 72 00:05:21,755 --> 00:05:25,258 address and lay out a mission for our term. I made a promise 73 00:05:25,258 --> 00:05:26,560 for our term. I made a promise that day to the people of 74 00:05:26,560 --> 00:05:29,363 that day to the people of Mississippi. Here is what I 75 00:05:29,363 --> 00:05:32,298 Mississippi. Here is what I said All Mississippi. Must be 76 00:05:32,298 --> 00:05:34,334 said All Mississippi. Must be able to trust that the people 77 00:05:34,334 --> 00:05:36,103 able to trust that the people in charge of the system are 78 00:05:36,103 --> 00:05:38,271 in charge of the system are acting with confidence to keep 79 00:05:38,271 --> 00:05:39,874 acting with confidence to keep them safe. We must be able to 80 00:05:39,874 --> 00:05:42,209 them safe. We must be able to trust that the corrections 81 00:05:42,209 --> 00:05:43,010 trust that the corrections officers operating in these 82 00:05:43,010 --> 00:05:44,310 officers operating in these prisons have the tools that 83 00:05:44,310 --> 00:05:46,913 prisons have the tools that they need to do their jobs and 84 00:05:46,913 --> 00:05:50,584 they need to do their jobs and if they are compensated fairly, 85 00:05:50,584 --> 00:05:52,052 if they are compensated fairly, we must be able to trust that 86 00:05:52,052 --> 00:05:54,187 we must be able to trust that the system shows respect to 87 00:05:54,187 --> 00:05:55,856 the system shows respect to those who find themselves 88 00:05:55,856 --> 00:05:58,291 those who find themselves within it. We must administer 89 00:05:58,291 --> 00:05:59,359 within it. We must administer Justice fairly respecting the 90 00:05:59,359 --> 00:06:00,327 Justice fairly respecting the dignity of all within our 91 00:06:00,327 --> 00:06:04,631 dignity of all within our prison walls. It was a great 92 00:06:04,631 --> 00:06:06,199 prison walls. It was a great Christian martyr of the 93 00:06:06,199 --> 00:06:07,000 Christian martyr of the sixteenth century who saw a 94 00:06:07,000 --> 00:06:09,102 sixteenth century who saw a group of prisoners headed to 95 00:06:09,102 --> 00:06:10,905 group of prisoners headed to the executioner and said there, 96 00:06:10,905 --> 00:06:14,775 the executioner and said there, but for the grace of God go I 97 00:06:14,775 --> 00:06:16,944 but for the grace of God go I we must carry that same spirit 98 00:06:16,944 --> 00:06:19,713 we must carry that same spirit of empathy As we embark on this 99 00:06:19,713 --> 00:06:22,149 of empathy As we embark on this mission, we have asked a 100 00:06:22,149 --> 00:06:23,718 mission, we have asked a trusted diverse group of 101 00:06:23,718 --> 00:06:26,253 trusted diverse group of experts to conduct a nationwide 102 00:06:26,253 --> 00:06:27,954 experts to conduct a nationwide search to provide me with a 103 00:06:27,954 --> 00:06:29,256 search to provide me with a recommendation for a permanent 104 00:06:29,256 --> 00:06:30,524 recommendation for a permanent solution to our leadership 105 00:06:30,524 --> 00:06:33,894 solution to our leadership crisis. Two gentlemen, who are 106 00:06:33,894 --> 00:06:36,297 crisis. Two gentlemen, who are at the table today, Mayor 107 00:06:36,297 --> 00:06:39,132 at the table today, Mayor George flags and Judge Shawn 108 00:06:39,132 --> 00:06:41,801 George flags and Judge Shawn Tyndall, were there that day. I 109 00:06:41,801 --> 00:06:44,404 Tyndall, were there that day. I asked them to lead the search. 110 00:06:44,404 --> 00:06:46,606 asked them to lead the search. they went through a rigorous 111 00:06:46,606 --> 00:06:48,375 they went through a rigorous process. There were many voices 112 00:06:48,375 --> 00:06:50,577 process. There were many voices in the room throughout that 113 00:06:50,577 --> 00:06:52,579 in the room throughout that process. There are those on the 114 00:06:52,579 --> 00:06:54,815 process. There are those on the right and those on the left and 115 00:06:54,815 --> 00:06:57,517 right and those on the left and there are those in the Middle. 116 00:06:57,517 --> 00:07:01,221 there are those in the Middle. I gave them a simple task. I 117 00:07:01,221 --> 00:07:04,591 I gave them a simple task. I simply said, go find me the 118 00:07:04,591 --> 00:07:07,294 simply said, go find me the best possible person to lead 119 00:07:07,294 --> 00:07:09,262 best possible person to lead the Department of Corrections, 120 00:07:09,262 --> 00:07:12,666 the Department of Corrections, not the best possible person in 121 00:07:12,666 --> 00:07:14,134 not the best possible person in Jackson, not the best possible 122 00:07:14,134 --> 00:07:16,303 Jackson, not the best possible person in Mississippi. I asked 123 00:07:16,303 --> 00:07:19,239 person in Mississippi. I asked them to find me the best 124 00:07:19,239 --> 00:07:23,643 them to find me the best possible person in America. I 125 00:07:23,643 --> 00:07:25,645 possible person in America. I believe in my heart that they 126 00:07:25,645 --> 00:07:28,682 believe in my heart that they have found us the best possible 127 00:07:28,682 --> 00:07:30,650 have found us the best possible person and I’m honored that 128 00:07:30,650 --> 00:07:33,186 person and I’m honored that mister Barro Cain, the former 129 00:07:33,186 --> 00:07:35,789 mister Barro Cain, the former warden of Angola prison in 130 00:07:35,789 --> 00:07:37,091 warden of Angola prison in Louisiana, has agreed to serve 131 00:07:37,091 --> 00:07:39,659 Louisiana, has agreed to serve as our corrections Commissioner 132 00:07:39,659 --> 00:07:41,328 as our corrections Commissioner Angola was once known as the 133 00:07:41,328 --> 00:07:44,197 Angola was once known as the bloodiest prison in America. It 134 00:07:44,197 --> 00:07:45,466 bloodiest prison in America. It was rocked with violence and it 135 00:07:45,466 --> 00:07:47,600 was rocked with violence and it failed the staff the inmates 136 00:07:47,600 --> 00:07:49,536 failed the staff the inmates and the citizens who relied on 137 00:07:49,536 --> 00:07:53,107 and the citizens who relied on it to provide Justice then. A 138 00:07:53,107 --> 00:07:55,743 it to provide Justice then. A man named Barr Cain entered the 139 00:07:55,743 --> 00:07:58,177 man named Barr Cain entered the picture he brought faith 140 00:07:58,177 --> 00:08:00,647 picture he brought faith security safety dignity and 141 00:08:00,647 --> 00:08:03,483 security safety dignity and pride to the prison. They went 142 00:08:03,483 --> 00:08:06,452 pride to the prison. They went from beatings to Bible studies. 143 00:08:06,452 --> 00:08:07,420 from beatings to Bible studies. He transformed America’s 144 00:08:07,420 --> 00:08:09,422 He transformed America’s bloodiest prison into the model 145 00:08:09,422 --> 00:08:12,659 bloodiest prison into the model of success for the nation 146 00:08:12,659 --> 00:08:13,527 of success for the nation inmates who were previously on 147 00:08:13,527 --> 00:08:15,663 inmates who were previously on lockdown for fear of violence. 148 00:08:15,663 --> 00:08:18,132 lockdown for fear of violence. We’re now working productive 149 00:08:18,132 --> 00:08:19,665 We’re now working productive jobs, handling power tools and 150 00:08:19,665 --> 00:08:20,634 jobs, handling power tools and moving freely throughout the 151 00:08:20,634 --> 00:08:21,535 moving freely throughout the grounds they were able to 152 00:08:21,535 --> 00:08:24,905 grounds they were able to accomplish. By treating even 153 00:08:24,905 --> 00:08:26,373 accomplish. By treating even the most violent criminals as 154 00:08:26,373 --> 00:08:28,708 the most violent criminals as human beings who are capable of 155 00:08:28,708 --> 00:08:30,510 human beings who are capable of reform and deserving of 156 00:08:30,510 --> 00:08:35,315 reform and deserving of respect. He has brought that 157 00:08:35,315 --> 00:08:37,051 respect. He has brought that success story to the world. 158 00:08:37,051 --> 00:08:37,984 success story to the world. He’s a nationally sided expert 159 00:08:37,984 --> 00:08:40,554 He’s a nationally sided expert in the conversation around 160 00:08:40,554 --> 00:08:43,090 in the conversation around corrections, he has brought 161 00:08:43,090 --> 00:08:45,159 corrections, he has brought faith-based programs to the 162 00:08:45,159 --> 00:08:47,294 faith-based programs to the country and his job interview 163 00:08:47,294 --> 00:08:48,796 country and his job interview with us. He raised the need to 164 00:08:48,796 --> 00:08:49,430 with us. He raised the need to treat all prisoners with the 165 00:08:49,430 --> 00:08:50,530 treat all prisoners with the dignity and respect that they 166 00:08:50,530 --> 00:08:52,732 dignity and respect that they have earned as men and women 167 00:08:52,732 --> 00:08:54,334 have earned as men and women created in the image of a 168 00:08:54,334 --> 00:08:57,138 created in the image of a loving God. I believe that 169 00:08:57,138 --> 00:08:59,339 loving God. I believe that Barro can can bring hope to the 170 00:08:59,339 --> 00:09:01,008 Barro can can bring hope to the inmates that are struggling 171 00:09:01,008 --> 00:09:03,110 inmates that are struggling time and time again. That was 172 00:09:03,110 --> 00:09:05,412 time and time again. That was it that was expressed as a 173 00:09:05,412 --> 00:09:08,181 it that was expressed as a sincere goal. Assures me he 174 00:09:08,181 --> 00:09:10,216 sincere goal. Assures me he will ensure that the integrity 175 00:09:10,216 --> 00:09:13,753 will ensure that the integrity of our system is uphill. I 176 00:09:13,753 --> 00:09:14,655 of our system is uphill. I believe he will make 177 00:09:14,655 --> 00:09:18,024 believe he will make Mississippi proud in my 178 00:09:18,024 --> 00:09:20,661 Mississippi proud in my inauguration. Former Parchman 179 00:09:20,661 --> 00:09:26,233 inauguration. Former Parchman inmate 468 57, A man by the 180 00:09:26,233 --> 00:09:28,669 inmate 468 57, A man by the name of Eddie Spencer led our 181 00:09:28,669 --> 00:09:31,172 name of Eddie Spencer led our state in prayer. He turned his 182 00:09:31,172 --> 00:09:32,839 state in prayer. He turned his life around and became a pastor 183 00:09:32,839 --> 00:09:35,175 life around and became a pastor who serves in part by helping 184 00:09:35,175 --> 00:09:36,142 who serves in part by helping Mississippians at risk of 185 00:09:36,142 --> 00:09:39,546 Mississippians at risk of succumbing to violent. And 186 00:09:39,546 --> 00:09:42,548 succumbing to violent. And joining the prison population, 187 00:09:42,548 --> 00:09:44,184 joining the prison population, he joined me, then at the state 188 00:09:44,184 --> 00:09:46,620 he joined me, then at the state of the state where I laid out 189 00:09:46,620 --> 00:09:48,856 of the state where I laid out our vision. He is a powerful 190 00:09:48,856 --> 00:09:50,724 our vision. He is a powerful testament and example of the 191 00:09:50,724 --> 00:09:53,093 testament and example of the mission of my administration to 192 00:09:53,093 --> 00:09:54,261 mission of my administration to have a Department of 193 00:09:54,261 --> 00:09:54,862 have a Department of corrections that actually 194 00:09:54,862 --> 00:09:57,264 corrections that actually corrects criminal behavior by 195 00:09:57,264 --> 00:09:59,633 corrects criminal behavior by leading inmates to a life will 196 00:09:59,633 --> 00:10:00,701 leading inmates to a life will lived. I believe that under 197 00:10:00,701 --> 00:10:02,736 lived. I believe that under Barro Can’s leadership, we can 198 00:10:02,736 --> 00:10:05,005 Barro Can’s leadership, we can have more Eddie Spencer and 199 00:10:05,005 --> 00:10:06,539 have more Eddie Spencer and fewer inmates who return to the 200 00:10:06,539 --> 00:10:09,776 fewer inmates who return to the system. Can treat all 201 00:10:09,776 --> 00:10:11,411 system. Can treat all Mississippians with the safety 202 00:10:11,411 --> 00:10:13,013 Mississippians with the safety the dignity and the pride that 203 00:10:13,013 --> 00:10:14,748 the dignity and the pride that they are owed as children of 204 00:10:14,748 --> 00:10:16,549 they are owed as children of the King and residents of the 205 00:10:16,549 --> 00:10:17,951 the King and residents of the great State of Mississippi, 206 00:10:17,951 --> 00:10:19,552 great State of Mississippi, whether they are incarcerated 207 00:10:19,552 --> 00:10:22,756 whether they are incarcerated or not our motto is and has 208 00:10:22,756 --> 00:10:26,860 or not our motto is and has been to serve for all 209 00:10:26,860 --> 00:10:27,727 been to serve for all Mississippi and ask all of you 210 00:10:27,727 --> 00:10:29,929 Mississippi and ask all of you to lend us whatever trust you 211 00:10:29,929 --> 00:10:32,632 to lend us whatever trust you can muster because 212 00:10:32,632 --> 00:10:34,702 can muster because transformation does take time, 213 00:10:34,702 --> 00:10:35,903 transformation does take time, but the time for action is now 214 00:10:35,903 --> 00:10:39,239 but the time for action is now and we are working tirelessly. 215 00:10:39,239 --> 00:10:41,141 and we are working tirelessly. Address the crisis we face in 216 00:10:41,141 --> 00:10:43,043 Address the crisis we face in our state and the crisis we 217 00:10:43,043 --> 00:10:45,445 our state and the crisis we face in our prison system. At 218 00:10:45,445 --> 00:10:47,047 face in our prison system. At this time, I would like to turn 219 00:10:47,047 --> 00:10:49,149 this time, I would like to turn it over to a man who needs no 220 00:10:49,149 --> 00:10:51,084 it over to a man who needs no introduction in the world of 221 00:10:51,084 --> 00:10:53,987 introduction in the world of corrections in this country, 222 00:10:53,987 --> 00:10:55,588 corrections in this country, Mississippi’s new Commissioner 223 00:10:55,588 --> 00:10:58,024 Mississippi’s new Commissioner of Corrections Barro Cain Thank 224 00:10:58,024 --> 00:10:59,359 of Corrections Barro Cain Thank you Governor so much and thank 225 00:10:59,359 --> 00:11:01,628 you Governor so much and thank you, Mayor and Judge Tyndall 226 00:11:01,628 --> 00:11:02,829 you, Mayor and Judge Tyndall for leading the team and to 227 00:11:02,829 --> 00:11:04,565 for leading the team and to interview me and to select me 228 00:11:04,565 --> 00:11:06,666 interview me and to select me to recommend to the governor 229 00:11:06,666 --> 00:11:08,068 to recommend to the governor and I promised to do a great 230 00:11:08,068 --> 00:11:09,770 and I promised to do a great job to to to help the 231 00:11:09,770 --> 00:11:11,204 job to to to help the Department of Correction and to 232 00:11:11,204 --> 00:11:12,172 Department of Correction and to do the full component is a 233 00:11:12,172 --> 00:11:12,806 do the full component is a essential to have a good 234 00:11:12,806 --> 00:11:15,208 essential to have a good person. That’s a good food. 235 00:11:15,208 --> 00:11:17,177 person. That’s a good food. Play good play, Good play and 236 00:11:17,177 --> 00:11:18,678 Play good play, Good play and good medicine. We’re gonna have 237 00:11:18,678 --> 00:11:19,979 good medicine. We’re gonna have those four components and 238 00:11:19,979 --> 00:11:21,414 those four components and that’s gonna make our that’s 239 00:11:21,414 --> 00:11:23,217 that’s gonna make our that’s come out and so I look forward 240 00:11:23,217 --> 00:11:24,184 come out and so I look forward to the challenge. I look 241 00:11:24,184 --> 00:11:26,653 to the challenge. I look forward to the job and to make 242 00:11:26,653 --> 00:11:27,287 forward to the job and to make Mitch Mississippi to have a 243 00:11:27,287 --> 00:11:29,356 Mitch Mississippi to have a great system and I think the 244 00:11:29,356 --> 00:11:30,758 great system and I think the governor for the faith and 245 00:11:30,758 --> 00:11:32,124 governor for the faith and confidence to put me to the 246 00:11:32,124 --> 00:11:34,027 confidence to put me to the Commissioner of Corrections. 247 00:11:34,027 --> 00:11:37,397 Commissioner of Corrections. Thank you. Thank you. This time 248 00:11:37,397 --> 00:11:39,933 Thank you. Thank you. This time I wanna give a long time friend 249 00:11:39,933 --> 00:11:41,935 I wanna give a long time friend of mine the mayor of the city 250 00:11:41,935 --> 00:11:43,770 of mine the mayor of the city of Vicksburg and someone who 251 00:11:43,770 --> 00:11:46,072 of Vicksburg and someone who worked tirelessly for months. 252 00:11:46,072 --> 00:11:47,607 worked tirelessly for months. we started out with a large 253 00:11:47,607 --> 00:11:51,611 we started out with a large number of applicants Many of 254 00:11:51,611 --> 00:11:53,180 number of applicants Many of them were very qualified. There 255 00:11:53,180 --> 00:11:55,615 them were very qualified. There are a lot of people that showed 256 00:11:55,615 --> 00:11:57,283 are a lot of people that showed interest in the job in 257 00:11:57,283 --> 00:11:59,419 interest in the job in Mississippi. we appreciate 258 00:11:59,419 --> 00:12:00,854 Mississippi. we appreciate every single one of them for 259 00:12:00,854 --> 00:12:03,323 every single one of them for their application for working 260 00:12:03,323 --> 00:12:04,057 their application for working through the process, but I 261 00:12:04,057 --> 00:12:04,691 through the process, but I wanna turn it over to Mayor 262 00:12:04,691 --> 00:12:09,730 wanna turn it over to Mayor flags as the chairman. Of that 263 00:12:09,730 --> 00:12:11,197 flags as the chairman. Of that Committee Well, thank you 264 00:12:11,197 --> 00:12:11,898 Committee Well, thank you Governor governor will be 265 00:12:11,898 --> 00:12:13,667 Governor governor will be remiss if I didn’t just start 266 00:12:13,667 --> 00:12:15,702 remiss if I didn’t just start by saying thank you for the 267 00:12:15,702 --> 00:12:18,338 by saying thank you for the leadership that you provide to 268 00:12:18,338 --> 00:12:20,674 leadership that you provide to this virus and what you do for 269 00:12:20,674 --> 00:12:22,174 this virus and what you do for the state of Mississippi and 270 00:12:22,174 --> 00:12:23,943 the state of Mississippi and yes, it’s a long time friend. I 271 00:12:23,943 --> 00:12:27,213 yes, it’s a long time friend. I want to say to you on behalf of 272 00:12:27,213 --> 00:12:28,714 want to say to you on behalf of the Committee that you’ve 273 00:12:28,714 --> 00:12:30,350 the Committee that you’ve selected I was honored to serve 274 00:12:30,350 --> 00:12:31,951 selected I was honored to serve as chairman, but it was easy 275 00:12:31,951 --> 00:12:33,253 as chairman, but it was easy because of the fact that the 276 00:12:33,253 --> 00:12:34,220 because of the fact that the people you selected to serve 277 00:12:34,220 --> 00:12:35,155 people you selected to serve with me, those people are very 278 00:12:35,155 --> 00:12:38,358 with me, those people are very open. And honestly, and we’ve 279 00:12:38,358 --> 00:12:41,295 open. And honestly, and we’ve done what you’ve us to do the 280 00:12:41,295 --> 00:12:43,130 done what you’ve us to do the process is more fair and 281 00:12:43,130 --> 00:12:46,200 process is more fair and everything we had a record 282 00:12:46,200 --> 00:12:47,667 everything we had a record number of people across this 283 00:12:47,667 --> 00:12:50,370 number of people across this nation that I wanted this job. 284 00:12:50,370 --> 00:12:52,039 nation that I wanted this job. Some people thought that there 285 00:12:52,039 --> 00:12:53,540 Some people thought that there was other issue why people 286 00:12:53,540 --> 00:12:55,575 was other issue why people wouldn’t, but I’m telling you I 287 00:12:55,575 --> 00:12:56,910 wouldn’t, but I’m telling you I was overwhelmed with the number 288 00:12:56,910 --> 00:12:58,344 was overwhelmed with the number of people that wanted this job 289 00:12:58,344 --> 00:12:59,913 of people that wanted this job and this committed to look at 290 00:12:59,913 --> 00:13:02,149 and this committed to look at every application and look at 291 00:13:02,149 --> 00:13:04,718 every application and look at every situation that we had 292 00:13:04,718 --> 00:13:07,654 every situation that we had facing us in this crisis or in 293 00:13:07,654 --> 00:13:08,788 facing us in this crisis or in this situation as relates to 294 00:13:08,788 --> 00:13:10,924 this situation as relates to the correction and we’re 295 00:13:10,924 --> 00:13:14,193 the correction and we’re unanimous unanimously. Up with 296 00:13:14,193 --> 00:13:15,695 unanimous unanimously. Up with the names that we came up with 297 00:13:15,695 --> 00:13:18,332 the names that we came up with and on behalf of the Committee, 298 00:13:18,332 --> 00:13:19,966 and on behalf of the Committee, I think you’ve done a great job 299 00:13:19,966 --> 00:13:21,434 I think you’ve done a great job in selecting the person I’ve 300 00:13:21,434 --> 00:13:23,703 in selecting the person I’ve had no conversations with him. 301 00:13:23,703 --> 00:13:25,205 had no conversations with him. I know of no person at this 302 00:13:25,205 --> 00:13:27,174 I know of no person at this time or that it was in that 303 00:13:27,174 --> 00:13:29,176 time or that it was in that application pool or in this 304 00:13:29,176 --> 00:13:31,178 application pool or in this country can do or what this man 305 00:13:31,178 --> 00:13:34,314 country can do or what this man can do if given an opportunity. 306 00:13:34,314 --> 00:13:35,682 can do if given an opportunity. Thank you Mayor for your 307 00:13:35,682 --> 00:13:37,317 Thank you Mayor for your service to our state to your 308 00:13:37,317 --> 00:13:39,153 service to our state to your service to the city of 309 00:13:39,153 --> 00:13:41,187 service to the city of Vicksburg. for those of you who 310 00:13:41,187 --> 00:13:43,623 Vicksburg. for those of you who did not know mayor flags is a 311 00:13:43,623 --> 00:13:44,958 did not know mayor flags is a Long-term was a long term 312 00:13:44,958 --> 00:13:45,758 Long-term was a long term member of the Mississippi 313 00:13:45,758 --> 00:13:46,559 member of the Mississippi Legislature served as the 314 00:13:46,559 --> 00:13:50,197 Legislature served as the chairman of the. In the 315 00:13:50,197 --> 00:13:52,599 chairman of the. In the Mississippi House of 316 00:13:52,599 --> 00:13:55,602 Mississippi House of Representatives and certainly 317 00:13:55,602 --> 00:13:58,238 Representatives and certainly was right for leading this 318 00:13:58,238 --> 00:13:59,672 was right for leading this particular Committee as we went 319 00:13:59,672 --> 00:14:03,610 particular Committee as we went through the process of 320 00:14:03,610 --> 00:14:05,179 through the process of determining who the best person 321 00:14:05,179 --> 00:14:07,914 determining who the best person in America was to serve as the 322 00:14:07,914 --> 00:14:09,616 in America was to serve as the leader of our Department of 323 00:14:09,616 --> 00:14:13,253 leader of our Department of Corrections. something as I 324 00:14:13,253 --> 00:14:16,856 Corrections. something as I listen to the meetings to the 325 00:14:16,856 --> 00:14:17,656 listen to the meetings to the comments that kept coming back 326 00:14:17,656 --> 00:14:18,824 comments that kept coming back to me as we look to build out 327 00:14:18,824 --> 00:14:22,162 to me as we look to build out our team is the leadership. In 328 00:14:22,162 --> 00:14:24,765 our team is the leadership. In a long time, friend of mine, 329 00:14:24,765 --> 00:14:26,332 a long time, friend of mine, someone who served in the 330 00:14:26,332 --> 00:14:27,234 someone who served in the Mississippi State Senate with 331 00:14:27,234 --> 00:14:29,936 Mississippi State Senate with me Senator Sean Tyndall, 332 00:14:29,936 --> 00:14:31,938 me Senator Sean Tyndall, Senator Tyndall, and you know 333 00:14:31,938 --> 00:14:32,872 Senator Tyndall, and you know we have a joke over in the 334 00:14:32,872 --> 00:14:34,073 we have a joke over in the Legislature. Want you want to 335 00:14:34,073 --> 00:14:34,874 Legislature. Want you want to send that you’re always a 336 00:14:34,874 --> 00:14:38,077 send that you’re always a senator since Tyndall a number 337 00:14:38,077 --> 00:14:40,113 senator since Tyndall a number of years ago, was tapped to 338 00:14:40,113 --> 00:14:41,648 of years ago, was tapped to serve on the Mississippi Court 339 00:14:41,648 --> 00:14:44,316 serve on the Mississippi Court of Appeals by then Governor 340 00:14:44,316 --> 00:14:46,052 of Appeals by then Governor Phil Bryant. He was done he was 341 00:14:46,052 --> 00:14:48,821 Phil Bryant. He was done he was tapped to lead in that capacity 342 00:14:48,821 --> 00:14:49,589 tapped to lead in that capacity because of his knowledge as a 343 00:14:49,589 --> 00:14:53,593 because of his knowledge as a lawyer, his competency. In the 344 00:14:53,593 --> 00:14:56,162 lawyer, his competency. In the Senate as the chairman of the 345 00:14:56,162 --> 00:14:57,664 Senate as the chairman of the Judiciary Committee, he hails 346 00:14:57,664 --> 00:15:00,133 Judiciary Committee, he hails from the Mississippi Gulf Coast 347 00:15:00,133 --> 00:15:02,869 from the Mississippi Gulf Coast from Gulfport he’s a former 348 00:15:02,869 --> 00:15:03,570 from Gulfport he’s a former subcommittee chairman of the 349 00:15:03,570 --> 00:15:05,939 subcommittee chairman of the Committee of Appropriations in 350 00:15:05,939 --> 00:15:07,907 Committee of Appropriations in the state Senate, and he 351 00:15:07,907 --> 00:15:10,876 the state Senate, and he certainly stepped up. Over the 352 00:15:10,876 --> 00:15:12,912 certainly stepped up. Over the last several months in leading 353 00:15:12,912 --> 00:15:15,582 last several months in leading and finding Barca to lead our 354 00:15:15,582 --> 00:15:17,317 and finding Barca to lead our corrections Committee 355 00:15:17,317 --> 00:15:19,719 corrections Committee Commission and I appreciate his 356 00:15:19,719 --> 00:15:21,822 Commission and I appreciate his effort, he is a close personal 357 00:15:21,822 --> 00:15:24,757 effort, he is a close personal friend of mine. He is a great 358 00:15:24,757 --> 00:15:27,727 friend of mine. He is a great public servant. he has served 359 00:15:27,727 --> 00:15:29,329 public servant. he has served from the Mississippi Gulf Coast 360 00:15:29,329 --> 00:15:31,698 from the Mississippi Gulf Coast region as an assistant district 361 00:15:31,698 --> 00:15:34,801 region as an assistant district attorney. He is represented 362 00:15:34,801 --> 00:15:37,604 attorney. He is represented individuals within the system 363 00:15:37,604 --> 00:15:42,275 individuals within the system and therefore I am absolutely. 364 00:15:43,109 --> 00:15:45,345 Pleased to announce that he has 365 00:15:45,345 --> 00:15:48,548 Pleased to announce that he has he has been willing to accept 366 00:15:48,548 --> 00:15:50,350 he has been willing to accept when I asked him if he would 367 00:15:50,350 --> 00:15:52,018 when I asked him if he would serve as the new Commissioner 368 00:15:52,018 --> 00:15:54,253 serve as the new Commissioner of the Department of Public 369 00:15:54,253 --> 00:15:55,722 of the Department of Public Safety. Now, I wanna be clear 370 00:15:55,722 --> 00:15:57,357 Safety. Now, I wanna be clear about a few things over the 371 00:15:57,357 --> 00:15:59,158 about a few things over the last several months we have 372 00:15:59,158 --> 00:16:01,194 last several months we have asked Colonel Chris Gillard to 373 00:16:01,194 --> 00:16:03,696 asked Colonel Chris Gillard to step up in his role. I could 374 00:16:03,696 --> 00:16:05,331 step up in his role. I could not be more pleased with his 375 00:16:05,331 --> 00:16:07,734 not be more pleased with his efforts over the last number of 376 00:16:07,734 --> 00:16:08,935 efforts over the last number of months every step of the way 377 00:16:08,935 --> 00:16:11,904 months every step of the way every time he has. Had to step 378 00:16:11,904 --> 00:16:14,139 every time he has. Had to step up and answer the call he and 379 00:16:14,139 --> 00:16:15,609 up and answer the call he and the men and women of the 380 00:16:15,609 --> 00:16:16,976 the men and women of the Department of Public Safety and 381 00:16:16,976 --> 00:16:19,178 Department of Public Safety and the Mississippi Highway Patrol 382 00:16:19,178 --> 00:16:20,847 the Mississippi Highway Patrol have done just that. Colonel 383 00:16:20,847 --> 00:16:22,114 have done just that. Colonel Gillard is in the room here 384 00:16:22,114 --> 00:16:23,550 Gillard is in the room here today. Colonel I wanna 385 00:16:23,550 --> 00:16:25,718 today. Colonel I wanna personally thank you for your 386 00:16:25,718 --> 00:16:27,721 personally thank you for your service to this great state. 387 00:16:27,721 --> 00:16:28,955 service to this great state. you represent the highway 388 00:16:28,955 --> 00:16:31,625 you represent the highway Patrol with honor with respect 389 00:16:31,625 --> 00:16:33,926 Patrol with honor with respect and with dignity and I 390 00:16:33,926 --> 00:16:35,795 and with dignity and I personally thank you for your 391 00:16:35,795 --> 00:16:36,796 personally thank you for your service. In addition to that, 392 00:16:36,796 --> 00:16:37,630 service. In addition to that, we also have lieutenant Colonel 393 00:16:37,630 --> 00:16:38,998 we also have lieutenant Colonel Randy Ginn here Randy has 394 00:16:38,998 --> 00:16:43,270 Randy Ginn here Randy has served. In that capacity for a 395 00:16:43,270 --> 00:16:45,272 served. In that capacity for a number of years and he also 396 00:16:45,272 --> 00:16:46,606 number of years and he also working with Colonel Gillard 397 00:16:46,606 --> 00:16:48,074 working with Colonel Gillard over the last several months 398 00:16:48,074 --> 00:16:49,676 over the last several months has stepped up and made a 399 00:16:49,676 --> 00:16:51,545 has stepped up and made a difference in our state and I 400 00:16:51,545 --> 00:16:53,413 difference in our state and I am proud of him in addition to 401 00:16:53,413 --> 00:16:56,749 am proud of him in addition to that mister Pat Cronin has been 402 00:16:56,749 --> 00:16:57,417 that mister Pat Cronin has been another person at the 403 00:16:57,417 --> 00:16:59,218 another person at the Department of Public Safety 404 00:16:59,218 --> 00:17:00,219 Department of Public Safety that has been there. I 405 00:17:00,219 --> 00:17:02,355 that has been there. I understand for almost 40 years 406 00:17:02,355 --> 00:17:03,856 understand for almost 40 years so for many of those years as 407 00:17:03,856 --> 00:17:05,692 so for many of those years as leading the Mississippi Law 408 00:17:05,692 --> 00:17:07,661 leading the Mississippi Law Enforcement training academy 409 00:17:07,661 --> 00:17:08,828 Enforcement training academy well respected by people 410 00:17:08,828 --> 00:17:09,696 well respected by people throughout the state law 411 00:17:09,696 --> 00:17:10,630 throughout the state law enforcement across the state 412 00:17:10,630 --> 00:17:14,601 enforcement across the state respect. I wanna personally 413 00:17:14,601 --> 00:17:16,201 respect. I wanna personally thank Pat Cronin for his 414 00:17:16,201 --> 00:17:17,804 thank Pat Cronin for his effort, but I will tell the 415 00:17:17,804 --> 00:17:20,172 effort, but I will tell the people of Mississippi today 416 00:17:20,172 --> 00:17:21,841 people of Mississippi today that I couldn’t be more proud 417 00:17:21,841 --> 00:17:23,577 that I couldn’t be more proud that Sean Tyndall is willing to 418 00:17:23,577 --> 00:17:25,679 that Sean Tyndall is willing to step up and answer the call to 419 00:17:25,679 --> 00:17:27,180 step up and answer the call to serve. He is inheriting a group 420 00:17:27,180 --> 00:17:29,683 serve. He is inheriting a group of individuals that care deeply 421 00:17:29,683 --> 00:17:32,184 of individuals that care deeply about our state and I know with 422 00:17:32,184 --> 00:17:32,852 about our state and I know with his leadership, we will 423 00:17:32,852 --> 00:17:35,088 his leadership, we will continue to take that 424 00:17:35,088 --> 00:17:36,723 continue to take that Department to a new level. so 425 00:17:36,723 --> 00:17:38,791 Department to a new level. so with that, I’m gonna turn it 426 00:17:38,791 --> 00:17:40,694 with that, I’m gonna turn it over to Shawn Tyndall, our new 427 00:17:40,694 --> 00:17:41,861 over to Shawn Tyndall, our new Commissioner of the Department 428 00:17:41,861 --> 00:17:43,029 Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety in the State 429 00:17:43,029 --> 00:17:44,130 of Public Safety in the State of Mississippi, Sean Thank you 430 00:17:44,130 --> 00:17:47,467 of Mississippi, Sean Thank you Governor. First and foremost, 431 00:17:47,467 --> 00:17:48,634 Governor. First and foremost, I’d like to thank Governor 432 00:17:48,634 --> 00:17:50,235 I’d like to thank Governor Reeves for his kind remarks and 433 00:17:50,235 --> 00:17:55,875 Reeves for his kind remarks and his faith in me to fulfill his 434 00:17:56,676 --> 00:17:59,179 Of the Department of Public 435 00:17:59,179 --> 00:18:00,714 Of the Department of Public Safety, I look forward to the 436 00:18:00,714 --> 00:18:01,748 Safety, I look forward to the opportunity to continue to 437 00:18:01,748 --> 00:18:03,817 opportunity to continue to serve the state of Mississippi 438 00:18:03,817 --> 00:18:05,885 serve the state of Mississippi as the next Commissioner the 439 00:18:05,885 --> 00:18:07,187 as the next Commissioner the Department of Public Safety. as 440 00:18:07,187 --> 00:18:08,153 Department of Public Safety. as you all know, has a story 441 00:18:08,153 --> 00:18:10,656 you all know, has a story history of excellence for our 442 00:18:10,656 --> 00:18:11,891 history of excellence for our state and I will work 443 00:18:11,891 --> 00:18:13,460 state and I will work tirelessly to maintain and 444 00:18:13,460 --> 00:18:15,729 tirelessly to maintain and improve that history of 445 00:18:15,729 --> 00:18:17,096 improve that history of excellence. I also look forward 446 00:18:17,096 --> 00:18:17,897 excellence. I also look forward to working with the other 447 00:18:17,897 --> 00:18:19,733 to working with the other branches of government to 448 00:18:19,733 --> 00:18:21,368 branches of government to ensure the safety of not only 449 00:18:21,368 --> 00:18:23,670 ensure the safety of not only the fine men and women at the 450 00:18:23,670 --> 00:18:25,372 the fine men and women at the Department but also all 451 00:18:25,372 --> 00:18:28,675 Department but also all Mississippians as with the. 452 00:18:28,675 --> 00:18:30,409 Mississippians as with the. Organization It takes everyone 453 00:18:30,409 --> 00:18:32,044 Organization It takes everyone from top to bottom to develop a 454 00:18:32,044 --> 00:18:33,747 from top to bottom to develop a culture of excellence from my 455 00:18:33,747 --> 00:18:35,782 culture of excellence from my part that includes leading by 456 00:18:35,782 --> 00:18:37,250 part that includes leading by example and surrounding myself 457 00:18:37,250 --> 00:18:39,152 example and surrounding myself with like-minded individuals 458 00:18:39,152 --> 00:18:40,753 with like-minded individuals who have the desire to serve 459 00:18:40,753 --> 00:18:43,356 who have the desire to serve the people of this great state 460 00:18:43,356 --> 00:18:44,823 the people of this great state in order to achieve the 461 00:18:44,823 --> 00:18:45,824 in order to achieve the excellence required of us, 462 00:18:45,824 --> 00:18:47,426 excellence required of us, there could be no room for big 463 00:18:47,426 --> 00:18:49,729 there could be no room for big Eos and grandstanding. It’s 464 00:18:49,729 --> 00:18:51,331 Eos and grandstanding. It’s simply will not be tolerated 465 00:18:51,331 --> 00:18:53,900 simply will not be tolerated What will be demanded is 466 00:18:53,900 --> 00:18:54,700 What will be demanded is servant leadership at all 467 00:18:54,700 --> 00:18:55,535 servant leadership at all points of contact within the 468 00:18:55,535 --> 00:18:56,670 points of contact within the Department and a willingness to 469 00:18:56,670 --> 00:19:00,339 Department and a willingness to work to. For the greater good 470 00:19:00,339 --> 00:19:02,475 work to. For the greater good of the state of Mississippi 471 00:19:02,475 --> 00:19:04,076 of the state of Mississippi over my first 90 days of the 472 00:19:04,076 --> 00:19:05,679 over my first 90 days of the Department, I will do an 473 00:19:05,679 --> 00:19:08,014 Department, I will do an overall assessment meeting with 474 00:19:08,014 --> 00:19:09,249 overall assessment meeting with all of the troopers the 475 00:19:09,249 --> 00:19:11,818 all of the troopers the different divisions within the 476 00:19:11,818 --> 00:19:14,120 different divisions within the Department Central office 477 00:19:14,120 --> 00:19:16,722 Department Central office leadership and others to 478 00:19:16,722 --> 00:19:17,257 leadership and others to determine what the top 479 00:19:17,257 --> 00:19:18,792 determine what the top priorities are at the 480 00:19:18,792 --> 00:19:20,927 priorities are at the Department also intend to meet 481 00:19:20,927 --> 00:19:22,662 Department also intend to meet with local law enforcement and 482 00:19:22,662 --> 00:19:24,430 with local law enforcement and prosecutors to hear their 483 00:19:24,430 --> 00:19:25,699 prosecutors to hear their concerns and gather their input 484 00:19:25,699 --> 00:19:29,236 concerns and gather their input and of course of. Priority of 485 00:19:29,236 --> 00:19:30,636 and of course of. Priority of mine would be to work on 486 00:19:30,636 --> 00:19:32,371 mine would be to work on improving the delays and 487 00:19:32,371 --> 00:19:34,907 improving the delays and problems we’ve seen and witness 488 00:19:34,907 --> 00:19:37,210 problems we’ve seen and witness with the issuance of driver’s 489 00:19:37,210 --> 00:19:40,113 with the issuance of driver’s license through the Department. 490 00:19:40,113 --> 00:19:41,715 license through the Department. lastly, I would be remiss if I 491 00:19:41,715 --> 00:19:43,148 lastly, I would be remiss if I didn’t take the opportunity to 492 00:19:43,148 --> 00:19:44,517 didn’t take the opportunity to thank my colleagues at the 493 00:19:44,517 --> 00:19:47,053 thank my colleagues at the Mississippi Court of Appeals. 494 00:19:47,053 --> 00:19:49,456 Mississippi Court of Appeals. My law clerks, Lindsey Watkins, 495 00:19:49,456 --> 00:19:50,790 My law clerks, Lindsey Watkins, Jordan Mcmichael, and my 496 00:19:50,790 --> 00:19:52,391 Jordan Mcmichael, and my judicial assistant Andres have 497 00:19:52,391 --> 00:19:53,993 judicial assistant Andres have done an excellent job of 498 00:19:53,993 --> 00:19:55,295 done an excellent job of helping make me a better judge 499 00:19:55,295 --> 00:19:57,864 helping make me a better judge and I’ve learned over. Years 500 00:19:57,864 --> 00:19:59,833 and I’ve learned over. Years whether it be in the Senate in 501 00:19:59,833 --> 00:20:01,802 whether it be in the Senate in private practice as a 502 00:20:01,802 --> 00:20:04,070 private practice as a prosecutor and now as a judge, 503 00:20:04,070 --> 00:20:05,605 prosecutor and now as a judge, that’s surrounding yourself 504 00:20:05,605 --> 00:20:08,007 that’s surrounding yourself with hardworking people that 505 00:20:08,007 --> 00:20:09,208 with hardworking people that demand not only of themselves 506 00:20:09,208 --> 00:20:11,711 demand not only of themselves but of others excellence makes 507 00:20:11,711 --> 00:20:13,346 but of others excellence makes the whole Organization work 508 00:20:13,346 --> 00:20:15,081 the whole Organization work better at home, I’d like to 509 00:20:15,081 --> 00:20:17,350 better at home, I’d like to thank my wife Claire. she’s 510 00:20:17,350 --> 00:20:19,886 thank my wife Claire. she’s been a rock for our family. My 511 00:20:19,886 --> 00:20:22,722 been a rock for our family. My kids, Sam JT, Meredith and 512 00:20:22,722 --> 00:20:24,224 kids, Sam JT, Meredith and Henry. she is the light of my 513 00:20:24,224 --> 00:20:25,625 Henry. she is the light of my world and that my children are 514 00:20:25,625 --> 00:20:26,692 world and that my children are as well and I look forward to 515 00:20:26,692 --> 00:20:30,863 as well and I look forward to setting a. Example for them in 516 00:20:30,863 --> 00:20:32,832 setting a. Example for them in this new role, I’m reminded 517 00:20:32,832 --> 00:20:34,066 this new role, I’m reminded when I look at them, the 518 00:20:34,066 --> 00:20:36,335 when I look at them, the admiration that I saw when I 519 00:20:36,335 --> 00:20:37,771 admiration that I saw when I when my grandfather was alive, 520 00:20:37,771 --> 00:20:39,171 when my grandfather was alive, Henry Brown, he was a sheriff’s 521 00:20:39,171 --> 00:20:41,741 Henry Brown, he was a sheriff’s deputy in Stone County, 522 00:20:41,741 --> 00:20:42,775 deputy in Stone County, Mississippi, and I was always 523 00:20:42,775 --> 00:20:44,243 Mississippi, and I was always proud of the fact that he 524 00:20:44,243 --> 00:20:46,312 proud of the fact that he served our County as a member 525 00:20:46,312 --> 00:20:48,581 served our County as a member of the local law enforcement 526 00:20:48,581 --> 00:20:49,882 of the local law enforcement and I’d also lastly like to 527 00:20:49,882 --> 00:20:52,819 and I’d also lastly like to thank my mother Dora who has 528 00:20:52,819 --> 00:20:54,053 thank my mother Dora who has been dealing with the recent 529 00:20:54,053 --> 00:20:55,655 been dealing with the recent passing of my father and it’s 530 00:20:55,655 --> 00:20:59,158 passing of my father and it’s always a constant reminder. Of 531 00:20:59,158 --> 00:21:02,261 always a constant reminder. Of me of how important it is to 532 00:21:02,261 --> 00:21:04,864 me of how important it is to work relentlessly for those 533 00:21:04,864 --> 00:21:08,233 work relentlessly for those around us and our community. 534 00:21:08,233 --> 00:21:09,803 around us and our community. Thank you Governor and I look 535 00:21:09,803 --> 00:21:10,870 Thank you Governor and I look forward to doing a good job for 536 00:21:10,870 --> 00:21:12,272 forward to doing a good job for you and the people of the state 537 00:21:12,272 --> 00:21:15,107 you and the people of the state of Mississippi. Thank you. 538 00:21:15,107 --> 00:21:17,811 of Mississippi. Thank you. Shawn Sean is now served in the 539 00:21:17,811 --> 00:21:18,477 Shawn Sean is now served in the legislative branch of 540 00:21:18,477 --> 00:21:19,245 legislative branch of government, the judicial branch 541 00:21:19,245 --> 00:21:20,679 government, the judicial branch of government and now he will 542 00:21:20,679 --> 00:21:22,181 of government and now he will have the opportunity to lead of 543 00:21:22,181 --> 00:21:24,249 have the opportunity to lead of one of the Premier state 544 00:21:24,249 --> 00:21:25,819 one of the Premier state agencies in the executive 545 00:21:25,819 --> 00:21:27,186 agencies in the executive branch of government and I know 546 00:21:27,186 --> 00:21:28,854 branch of government and I know that he is up to the task and I 547 00:21:28,854 --> 00:21:29,455 that he is up to the task and I look forward to working with 548 00:21:29,455 --> 00:21:32,191 look forward to working with him to continue to grow. 549 00:21:32,191 --> 00:21:35,895 him to continue to grow. Mississippi We are proud of the 550 00:21:35,895 --> 00:21:37,296 Mississippi We are proud of the team that I know will protect 551 00:21:37,296 --> 00:21:38,764 team that I know will protect the people of Mississippi 552 00:21:38,764 --> 00:21:40,132 the people of Mississippi wholeheartedly and capable as 553 00:21:40,132 --> 00:21:42,335 wholeheartedly and capable as we work to protect the people 554 00:21:42,335 --> 00:21:45,204 we work to protect the people from the disaster that is cogan 555 00:21:45,204 --> 00:21:46,672 from the disaster that is cogan 19. We also know that that is 556 00:21:46,672 --> 00:21:49,442 19. We also know that that is not our only threat. we must do 557 00:21:49,442 --> 00:21:51,744 not our only threat. we must do our whole job. That’s our goal. 558 00:21:51,744 --> 00:21:54,313 our whole job. That’s our goal. of course, that does not mean 559 00:21:54,313 --> 00:21:55,949 of course, that does not mean as always updating you on our 560 00:21:55,949 --> 00:21:58,217 as always updating you on our public health and economic 561 00:21:58,217 --> 00:21:58,918 public health and economic crisis. I will let you know 562 00:21:58,918 --> 00:22:00,519 crisis. I will let you know that I do plan to sign the 563 00:22:00,519 --> 00:22:01,286 that I do plan to sign the legislature’s bill later today 564 00:22:01,286 --> 00:22:03,623 legislature’s bill later today and start getting assistance. 565 00:22:03,623 --> 00:22:06,158 and start getting assistance. To our small business owners as 566 00:22:06,158 --> 00:22:08,194 To our small business owners as quickly as humanly possible, 567 00:22:08,194 --> 00:22:09,195 quickly as humanly possible, we’ve been working all the 568 00:22:09,195 --> 00:22:10,796 we’ve been working all the things we need to do to 569 00:22:10,796 --> 00:22:12,164 things we need to do to administer since the concept 570 00:22:12,164 --> 00:22:14,533 administer since the concept was introduced. I’m grateful 571 00:22:14,533 --> 00:22:15,834 was introduced. I’m grateful for all of the legislate tours 572 00:22:15,834 --> 00:22:18,270 for all of the legislate tours for their work on this bill. we 573 00:22:18,270 --> 00:22:19,873 for their work on this bill. we were in agreement on the vision 574 00:22:19,873 --> 00:22:22,175 were in agreement on the vision and on the broad concepts and 575 00:22:22,175 --> 00:22:23,710 and on the broad concepts and goals the small businesses 576 00:22:23,710 --> 00:22:25,144 goals the small businesses across Mississippi that have 577 00:22:25,144 --> 00:22:28,214 across Mississippi that have been hurt the most during this 578 00:22:28,214 --> 00:22:30,650 been hurt the most during this crisis, I’ve said Repeatedly 579 00:22:30,650 --> 00:22:31,484 crisis, I’ve said Repeatedly Wall Street is going to do just 580 00:22:31,484 --> 00:22:34,786 Wall Street is going to do just fine. We have to focus on. Main 581 00:22:34,786 --> 00:22:36,956 fine. We have to focus on. Main Street, It took us a few days 582 00:22:36,956 --> 00:22:39,091 Street, It took us a few days to review the bill because as 583 00:22:39,091 --> 00:22:41,127 to review the bill because as is often the case, it’s not 584 00:22:41,127 --> 00:22:42,962 is often the case, it’s not perfect. Most legislation is 585 00:22:42,962 --> 00:22:45,197 perfect. Most legislation is not it’s far better than what 586 00:22:45,197 --> 00:22:46,966 not it’s far better than what came before, and I believe that 587 00:22:46,966 --> 00:22:48,768 came before, and I believe that any problems with compliance 588 00:22:48,768 --> 00:22:51,103 any problems with compliance with the Treasury guidelines 589 00:22:51,103 --> 00:22:53,372 with the Treasury guidelines can be and will be addressed. 590 00:22:53,372 --> 00:22:55,742 can be and will be addressed. It’s mostly technical stuff and 591 00:22:55,742 --> 00:22:57,343 It’s mostly technical stuff and that is the unfortunate reality 592 00:22:57,343 --> 00:22:59,713 that is the unfortunate reality of having to deal in specifics 593 00:22:59,713 --> 00:23:01,813 of having to deal in specifics rather than hypotheticals we 594 00:23:01,813 --> 00:23:03,182 rather than hypotheticals we can deal with it. 595 00:23:03,182 --> 00:23:03,583 can deal with it. administratively everyone 596 00:23:03,583 --> 00:23:06,886 administratively everyone worked. Really hard on it, They 597 00:23:06,886 --> 00:23:09,222 worked. Really hard on it, They put in long hours into the 598 00:23:09,222 --> 00:23:10,722 put in long hours into the Middle of the night, and I’m 599 00:23:10,722 --> 00:23:12,224 Middle of the night, and I’m very grateful for their 600 00:23:12,224 --> 00:23:14,694 very grateful for their efforts. I’m grateful to all of 601 00:23:14,694 --> 00:23:16,462 efforts. I’m grateful to all of our people across Mississippi 602 00:23:16,462 --> 00:23:18,731 our people across Mississippi who are helping us to safely 603 00:23:18,731 --> 00:23:20,333 who are helping us to safely reopen your vigilance is what 604 00:23:20,333 --> 00:23:22,769 reopen your vigilance is what allows us to get closer and 605 00:23:22,769 --> 00:23:26,773 allows us to get closer and closer to normal day by day, I 606 00:23:26,773 --> 00:23:28,574 closer to normal day by day, I truly wanna thank the people of 607 00:23:28,574 --> 00:23:29,809 truly wanna thank the people of our state. We have made 608 00:23:29,809 --> 00:23:31,710 our state. We have made sacrifices for weeks and months 609 00:23:31,710 --> 00:23:35,215 sacrifices for weeks and months on end, we have to continue to. 610 00:23:35,215 --> 00:23:37,182 on end, we have to continue to. Vigilant We have to continue to 611 00:23:37,182 --> 00:23:38,651 Vigilant We have to continue to make sacrifices we have to 612 00:23:38,651 --> 00:23:40,119 make sacrifices we have to continue to protect ourselves 613 00:23:40,119 --> 00:23:42,688 continue to protect ourselves and our family and our fellow 614 00:23:42,688 --> 00:23:44,623 and our family and our fellow Mississippians with that. I’m 615 00:23:44,623 --> 00:23:46,659 Mississippians with that. I’m gonna turn it over to doctor 616 00:23:46,659 --> 00:23:48,227 gonna turn it over to doctor Dobbs, who will give us an 617 00:23:48,227 --> 00:23:49,394 Dobbs, who will give us an update on the public health 618 00:23:49,394 --> 00:23:51,363 update on the public health crisis. Doctor Dobbs Thank you 619 00:23:51,363 --> 00:23:53,566 crisis. Doctor Dobbs Thank you Governor quick update today We 620 00:23:53,566 --> 00:23:56,234 Governor quick update today We are reporting 263 new cases and 621 00:23:56,234 --> 00:23:58,671 are reporting 263 new cases and sadly we continue to mount 622 00:23:58,671 --> 00:23:59,572 sadly we continue to mount deaths. We have 16 additional 623 00:23:59,572 --> 00:24:01,040 deaths. We have 16 additional deaths that we’re reporting 624 00:24:01,040 --> 00:24:01,574 deaths that we’re reporting today and again the vast 625 00:24:01,574 --> 00:24:02,641 today and again the vast majority of the deaths. We’re 626 00:24:02,641 --> 00:24:04,944 majority of the deaths. We’re our current. In older 627 00:24:04,944 --> 00:24:07,313 our current. In older individuals, if we look at 628 00:24:07,313 --> 00:24:08,815 individuals, if we look at other metrics, we do continue 629 00:24:08,815 --> 00:24:11,417 other metrics, we do continue to see steady declines in the 630 00:24:11,417 --> 00:24:12,685 to see steady declines in the Cove like illness visits within 631 00:24:12,685 --> 00:24:15,321 Cove like illness visits within the ERs which is a good sign. 632 00:24:15,321 --> 00:24:16,355 the ERs which is a good sign. and but if we look at our 633 00:24:16,355 --> 00:24:18,824 and but if we look at our hospitalization rates we we see 634 00:24:18,824 --> 00:24:19,592 hospitalization rates we we see relative stability, but we also 635 00:24:19,592 --> 00:24:22,728 relative stability, but we also see some gradual increases in 636 00:24:22,728 --> 00:24:23,395 see some gradual increases in total hospitalized patients 637 00:24:23,395 --> 00:24:26,766 total hospitalized patients with Corona virus and and mild 638 00:24:26,766 --> 00:24:28,334 with Corona virus and and mild increases in the number of 639 00:24:28,334 --> 00:24:30,970 increases in the number of patients in the ICU or in the 640 00:24:30,970 --> 00:24:31,604 patients in the ICU or in the ventilator who have Chrono 641 00:24:31,604 --> 00:24:34,806 ventilator who have Chrono virus one. Everyone to get 642 00:24:34,806 --> 00:24:36,274 virus one. Everyone to get tested if they have any 643 00:24:36,274 --> 00:24:38,277 tested if they have any symptoms of coro virus or if 644 00:24:38,277 --> 00:24:39,279 symptoms of coro virus or if they think they might have been 645 00:24:39,279 --> 00:24:40,847 they think they might have been exposed. Of course, we have the 646 00:24:40,847 --> 00:24:43,449 exposed. Of course, we have the daily test site with UMC at the 647 00:24:43,449 --> 00:24:44,851 daily test site with UMC at the Jackson Fairgrounds. So if you 648 00:24:44,851 --> 00:24:46,152 Jackson Fairgrounds. So if you have please you know schedule 649 00:24:46,152 --> 00:24:47,287 have please you know schedule an appointment if you think you 650 00:24:47,287 --> 00:24:48,988 an appointment if you think you need to be tested tomorrow, 651 00:24:48,988 --> 00:24:50,322 need to be tested tomorrow, there will be a testing 652 00:24:50,322 --> 00:24:51,289 there will be a testing location drive thru at the 653 00:24:51,289 --> 00:24:53,726 location drive thru at the Collins County Multipurpose 654 00:24:53,726 --> 00:24:55,361 Collins County Multipurpose building. I’m gonna have the 655 00:24:55,361 --> 00:24:56,428 building. I’m gonna have the privilege of visiting our team 656 00:24:56,428 --> 00:24:57,363 privilege of visiting our team down there tomorrow so come by 657 00:24:57,363 --> 00:24:59,299 down there tomorrow so come by and say hello and get tested if 658 00:24:59,299 --> 00:25:02,168 and say hello and get tested if you need to get tested a couple 659 00:25:02,168 --> 00:25:03,502 you need to get tested a couple of other things. I’d we have 660 00:25:03,502 --> 00:25:04,603 of other things. I’d we have been getting a lot of calls 661 00:25:04,603 --> 00:25:05,504 been getting a lot of calls from people wanting to help out 662 00:25:05,504 --> 00:25:06,572 from people wanting to help out in the effort and I’m very 663 00:25:06,572 --> 00:25:07,640 in the effort and I’m very excited about that. So if you 664 00:25:07,640 --> 00:25:11,143 excited about that. So if you we’re recruiting nurses. 665 00:25:11,143 --> 00:25:12,711 we’re recruiting nurses. Epidemiologist and Disease 666 00:25:12,711 --> 00:25:13,679 Epidemiologist and Disease Investigation specialists, 667 00:25:13,679 --> 00:25:14,613 Investigation specialists, Please follow us on social 668 00:25:14,613 --> 00:25:15,248 Please follow us on social media for the Department of 669 00:25:15,248 --> 00:25:16,715 media for the Department of Health and you can see how to 670 00:25:16,715 --> 00:25:17,917 Health and you can see how to apply these are gonna be full 671 00:25:17,917 --> 00:25:19,518 apply these are gonna be full time jobs professional 672 00:25:19,518 --> 00:25:20,687 time jobs professional positions with training 673 00:25:20,687 --> 00:25:22,121 positions with training involved so if if you’re a 674 00:25:22,121 --> 00:25:23,322 involved so if if you’re a nurse or if you’re an 675 00:25:23,322 --> 00:25:24,990 nurse or if you’re an epidemiologist or if you wanna 676 00:25:24,990 --> 00:25:26,992 epidemiologist or if you wanna be a disease investigation 677 00:25:26,992 --> 00:25:27,526 be a disease investigation specialist which requires that 678 00:25:27,526 --> 00:25:29,161 specialist which requires that a minimum a Bachelor’s degree 679 00:25:29,161 --> 00:25:31,331 a minimum a Bachelor’s degree with a science background 680 00:25:31,331 --> 00:25:32,731 with a science background please follow us on social 681 00:25:32,731 --> 00:25:33,633 please follow us on social media. We’re recruiting a team 682 00:25:33,633 --> 00:25:34,867 media. We’re recruiting a team of talented individuals to make 683 00:25:34,867 --> 00:25:36,035 of talented individuals to make sure that we can continue our 684 00:25:36,035 --> 00:25:37,070 sure that we can continue our response, but as we look to the 685 00:25:37,070 --> 00:25:39,738 response, but as we look to the fall and anticipated. Of 686 00:25:39,738 --> 00:25:41,006 fall and anticipated. Of disease, we wanna have that 687 00:25:41,006 --> 00:25:42,175 disease, we wanna have that team bolstered and ready to 688 00:25:42,175 --> 00:25:43,776 team bolstered and ready to respond as quickly and as 689 00:25:43,776 --> 00:25:46,245 respond as quickly and as robustly as possible. The last 690 00:25:46,245 --> 00:25:47,780 robustly as possible. The last thing I wanna say is parents go 691 00:25:47,780 --> 00:25:49,148 thing I wanna say is parents go ahead and get your start 692 00:25:49,148 --> 00:25:49,748 ahead and get your start getting your kids vaccinated. 693 00:25:49,748 --> 00:25:51,249 getting your kids vaccinated. We know that kids are far 694 00:25:51,249 --> 00:25:52,218 We know that kids are far behind getting back to school. 695 00:25:52,218 --> 00:25:53,953 behind getting back to school. We don’t want that to be a 696 00:25:53,953 --> 00:25:54,954 We don’t want that to be a problem when they’re trying to 697 00:25:54,954 --> 00:25:57,790 problem when they’re trying to get back enrolled depending on 698 00:25:57,790 --> 00:25:58,591 get back enrolled depending on you know kinda how that rolls 699 00:25:58,591 --> 00:26:01,060 you know kinda how that rolls out in the fall. Call your 700 00:26:01,060 --> 00:26:02,595 out in the fall. Call your pediatrician. Call your clinic 701 00:26:02,595 --> 00:26:03,729 pediatrician. Call your clinic to see about getting scheduled 702 00:26:03,729 --> 00:26:05,564 to see about getting scheduled for your for your shots. the 703 00:26:05,564 --> 00:26:06,365 for your for your shots. the Department of Health is will 704 00:26:06,365 --> 00:26:07,199 Department of Health is will start ramping up our normal 705 00:26:07,199 --> 00:26:10,136 start ramping up our normal operations in mid. We’ll be 706 00:26:10,136 --> 00:26:12,737 operations in mid. We’ll be offering our childhood and teen 707 00:26:12,737 --> 00:26:13,538 offering our childhood and teen vaccinations through the 708 00:26:13,538 --> 00:26:14,273 vaccinations through the Department of Health clinics. 709 00:26:14,273 --> 00:26:15,475 Department of Health clinics. That’s all I have sir. Thank 710 00:26:15,475 --> 00:26:16,642 That’s all I have sir. Thank you. Thank you. Doctor Dobbs 711 00:26:16,642 --> 00:26:17,276 you. Thank you. Doctor Dobbs for your leadership during this 712 00:26:17,276 --> 00:26:19,178 for your leadership during this crisis. Director Michelle is 713 00:26:19,178 --> 00:26:22,215 crisis. Director Michelle is out and about today visiting 714 00:26:22,215 --> 00:26:24,650 out and about today visiting numerous areas meeting with 715 00:26:24,650 --> 00:26:25,184 numerous areas meeting with emergency management 716 00:26:25,184 --> 00:26:27,319 emergency management coordinators. I gave him the 717 00:26:27,319 --> 00:26:28,988 coordinators. I gave him the day off from being at the press 718 00:26:28,988 --> 00:26:31,691 day off from being at the press briefing today so that he can 719 00:26:31,691 --> 00:26:33,459 briefing today so that he can continue to get prepared and 720 00:26:33,459 --> 00:26:35,561 continue to get prepared and make sure our emergency 721 00:26:35,561 --> 00:26:36,762 make sure our emergency management plan is in effect as 722 00:26:36,762 --> 00:26:40,200 management plan is in effect as we fast. 723 00:26:40,200 --> 00:26:40,266 we fast. Approach 724 00:26:40,266 --> 00:26:42,668 Approach hurricane season in 725 00:26:42,668 --> 00:26:44,637 Approach hurricane season in Mississippi So with that again, 726 00:26:44,637 --> 00:26:45,571 Mississippi So with that again, thank you to everyone for being 727 00:26:45,571 --> 00:26:47,272 thank you to everyone for being here today and I will turn it 728 00:26:47,272 --> 00:26:49,575 here today and I will turn it over for any questions that you 729 00:26:49,575 --> 00:26:52,177 over for any questions that you may have Courtney I wanted to 730 00:26:52,177 --> 00:26:54,747 may have Courtney I wanted to ask you Mister Kane obviously a 731 00:26:54,747 --> 00:26:57,216 ask you Mister Kane obviously a nationwide search. you do have 732 00:26:57,216 --> 00:26:57,650 nationwide search. you do have that experience that the 733 00:26:57,650 --> 00:26:58,851 that experience that the governor mentioned there tell 734 00:26:58,851 --> 00:27:00,219 governor mentioned there tell me about from the outside 735 00:27:00,219 --> 00:27:01,888 me about from the outside looking in what you hope will 736 00:27:01,888 --> 00:27:03,622 looking in what you hope will be some of the first things to 737 00:27:03,622 --> 00:27:05,291 be some of the first things to tackle or what the priorities 738 00:27:05,291 --> 00:27:08,960 tackle or what the priorities need to be well prior. Is the 739 00:27:08,960 --> 00:27:10,762 need to be well prior. Is the stability of the system and so 740 00:27:10,762 --> 00:27:12,799 stability of the system and so we’re working on that, but it’s 741 00:27:12,799 --> 00:27:13,966 we’re working on that, but it’s a bigger picture. We wanna 742 00:27:13,966 --> 00:27:16,435 a bigger picture. We wanna really work on a less victims 743 00:27:16,435 --> 00:27:18,837 really work on a less victims of violent crime safety and the 744 00:27:18,837 --> 00:27:21,741 of violent crime safety and the safety for the staff and we 745 00:27:21,741 --> 00:27:22,975 safety for the staff and we also want to be very user 746 00:27:22,975 --> 00:27:24,743 also want to be very user friendly to the inmates 747 00:27:24,743 --> 00:27:27,213 friendly to the inmates families to when they visited 748 00:27:27,213 --> 00:27:29,682 families to when they visited and we wanna have that sort of 749 00:27:29,682 --> 00:27:31,283 and we wanna have that sort of system here we wanna have more 750 00:27:31,283 --> 00:27:32,784 system here we wanna have more rehabilitation more people 751 00:27:32,784 --> 00:27:34,520 rehabilitation more people don’t commit crime. We’re gonna 752 00:27:34,520 --> 00:27:35,287 don’t commit crime. We’re gonna really focus on reentry and 753 00:27:35,287 --> 00:27:36,455 really focus on reentry and really skilled and trades so 754 00:27:36,455 --> 00:27:38,757 really skilled and trades so that. And they are released 755 00:27:38,757 --> 00:27:40,326 that. And they are released from prison. They can get a 756 00:27:40,326 --> 00:27:41,761 from prison. They can get a job. We’re gonna help them find 757 00:27:41,761 --> 00:27:43,362 job. We’re gonna help them find the job and we’re gonna work to 758 00:27:43,362 --> 00:27:44,863 the job and we’re gonna work to that and to know and to get 759 00:27:44,863 --> 00:27:46,332 that and to know and to get there and we’re gonna do it 760 00:27:46,332 --> 00:27:47,533 there and we’re gonna do it most efficiently because we 761 00:27:47,533 --> 00:27:49,034 most efficiently because we have the greatest resource in 762 00:27:49,034 --> 00:27:50,303 have the greatest resource in the inmates themselves and 763 00:27:50,303 --> 00:27:52,471 the inmates themselves and we’re gonna use them to help do 764 00:27:52,471 --> 00:27:54,340 we’re gonna use them to help do this in a cost efficient manner 765 00:27:54,340 --> 00:27:56,242 this in a cost efficient manner and to give them work in 766 00:27:56,242 --> 00:27:57,810 and to give them work in business and something to do in 767 00:27:57,810 --> 00:28:01,646 business and something to do in the keep them busy. 768 00:28:02,747 --> 00:28:05,351 Considering that the Department 769 00:28:05,351 --> 00:28:05,818 Considering that the Department historically has been 770 00:28:05,818 --> 00:28:08,553 historically has been underfunded and most likely 771 00:28:08,553 --> 00:28:09,756 underfunded and most likely will continue to be on the 772 00:28:09,756 --> 00:28:11,990 will continue to be on the funded based on history. How 773 00:28:11,990 --> 00:28:13,258 funded based on history. How are you gonna balance that with 774 00:28:13,258 --> 00:28:15,427 are you gonna balance that with the priorities that you are 775 00:28:15,427 --> 00:28:17,262 the priorities that you are hoping for? I’ve been a more 776 00:28:17,262 --> 00:28:19,799 hoping for? I’ve been a more than 30 - four years, and it’s 777 00:28:19,799 --> 00:28:21,433 than 30 - four years, and it’s always been underfunded and so 778 00:28:21,433 --> 00:28:23,035 always been underfunded and so what you have to do is have an 779 00:28:23,035 --> 00:28:24,202 what you have to do is have an attitude that we can do this. 780 00:28:24,202 --> 00:28:25,271 attitude that we can do this. We’re gonna say yes more than 781 00:28:25,271 --> 00:28:27,340 We’re gonna say yes more than no and we’re gonna find ways to 782 00:28:27,340 --> 00:28:28,774 no and we’re gonna find ways to do it and it’s gonna be doable. 783 00:28:28,774 --> 00:28:31,443 do it and it’s gonna be doable. I can assure you that. And the 784 00:28:31,443 --> 00:28:32,444 I can assure you that. And the Government’s gonna provide 785 00:28:32,444 --> 00:28:33,879 Government’s gonna provide what’s needed for us and we’re 786 00:28:33,879 --> 00:28:35,647 what’s needed for us and we’re gonna be fishing as we can and 787 00:28:35,647 --> 00:28:37,250 gonna be fishing as we can and we’re gonna be leaning in and 788 00:28:37,250 --> 00:28:40,253 we’re gonna be leaning in and get it done. I would just like 789 00:28:40,253 --> 00:28:42,221 get it done. I would just like to speak to the the the funding 790 00:28:42,221 --> 00:28:43,822 to speak to the the the funding level cuz I think it’s 791 00:28:43,822 --> 00:28:47,225 level cuz I think it’s important if you have followed 792 00:28:47,225 --> 00:28:49,828 important if you have followed the Department, we have we have 793 00:28:49,828 --> 00:28:52,198 the Department, we have we have put in a new financial officer 794 00:28:52,198 --> 00:28:53,800 put in a new financial officer at the Department of 795 00:28:53,800 --> 00:28:55,267 at the Department of Corrections. a gentleman who 796 00:28:55,267 --> 00:28:56,002 Corrections. a gentleman who Kerri Mcdonald who I wanna 797 00:28:56,002 --> 00:28:59,438 Kerri Mcdonald who I wanna thank him again for his service 798 00:28:59,438 --> 00:29:00,773 thank him again for his service to our state and particularly 799 00:29:00,773 --> 00:29:01,740 to our state and particularly to the Department of 800 00:29:01,740 --> 00:29:02,474 to the Department of Corrections. He’s done a 801 00:29:02,474 --> 00:29:04,777 Corrections. He’s done a fantastic job. he recently 802 00:29:04,777 --> 00:29:08,247 fantastic job. he recently asked for and and Commissioner 803 00:29:08,247 --> 00:29:10,416 asked for and and Commissioner Taylor do as well a 804 00:29:10,416 --> 00:29:11,150 Taylor do as well a 22 million dollar deficit this 805 00:29:11,150 --> 00:29:11,750 22 million dollar deficit this year at the Department of 806 00:29:11,750 --> 00:29:12,718 year at the Department of Corrections, he and I had a 807 00:29:12,718 --> 00:29:14,420 Corrections, he and I had a great conversation. Earlier 808 00:29:14,420 --> 00:29:16,555 great conversation. Earlier this week and just so you know 809 00:29:16,555 --> 00:29:18,190 this week and just so you know that 22 million dollar deficit 810 00:29:18,190 --> 00:29:20,959 that 22 million dollar deficit of it is actually for medical 811 00:29:20,959 --> 00:29:24,229 of it is actually for medical expenses that were incurred 812 00:29:24,229 --> 00:29:25,097 expenses that were incurred last year. the previous 813 00:29:25,097 --> 00:29:27,333 last year. the previous administration chose to spend 814 00:29:27,333 --> 00:29:28,534 administration chose to spend 14 million dollars this year on 815 00:29:28,534 --> 00:29:29,902 14 million dollars this year on medical expenses that that 816 00:29:29,902 --> 00:29:31,637 medical expenses that that occurred a year ago in addition 817 00:29:31,637 --> 00:29:33,672 occurred a year ago in addition to that the additional eight 818 00:29:33,672 --> 00:29:36,208 to that the additional eight million dollars over and above 819 00:29:36,208 --> 00:29:38,010 million dollars over and above the over and above the 14 is 820 00:29:38,010 --> 00:29:39,846 the over and above the 14 is actually approximately the same 821 00:29:39,846 --> 00:29:40,646 actually approximately the same amount that is being spent Now 822 00:29:40,646 --> 00:29:41,613 amount that is being spent Now that for those inmates that 823 00:29:41,613 --> 00:29:44,683 that for those inmates that were. 824 00:29:44,683 --> 00:29:44,716 were. Out 825 00:29:44,716 --> 00:29:47,753 Out of parts in Towe into that 826 00:29:47,753 --> 00:29:49,254 Out of parts in Towe into that private prison that had we not 827 00:29:49,254 --> 00:29:51,490 private prison that had we not had to do that. I think what 828 00:29:51,490 --> 00:29:53,158 had to do that. I think what you would have found is it that 829 00:29:53,158 --> 00:29:54,793 you would have found is it that would have the amount of money 830 00:29:54,793 --> 00:29:55,694 would have the amount of money that we’re spending in 831 00:29:55,694 --> 00:29:58,331 that we’re spending in corrections this year. what is 832 00:29:58,331 --> 00:30:00,699 corrections this year. what is approximately what was 833 00:30:00,699 --> 00:30:02,734 approximately what was appropriated during last year’s 834 00:30:02,734 --> 00:30:03,736 appropriated during last year’s legislative session. Now we’ve 835 00:30:03,736 --> 00:30:05,237 legislative session. Now we’ve got some other issues that 836 00:30:05,237 --> 00:30:05,738 got some other issues that we’ve got to deal with. 837 00:30:05,738 --> 00:30:07,806 we’ve got to deal with. Obviously we’ve got a retrofit 838 00:30:07,806 --> 00:30:09,675 Obviously we’ve got a retrofit buildings. We’ve got an 839 00:30:09,675 --> 00:30:11,242 buildings. We’ve got an improved some things from from 840 00:30:11,242 --> 00:30:13,178 improved some things from from a capital expense standpoint. 841 00:30:13,178 --> 00:30:15,280 a capital expense standpoint. We’re also looking at other 842 00:30:15,280 --> 00:30:16,082 We’re also looking at other options for those inmates that 843 00:30:16,082 --> 00:30:17,015 options for those inmates that were removed out of unit 29, 844 00:30:17,015 --> 00:30:19,618 were removed out of unit 29, but I am confident. We will 845 00:30:19,618 --> 00:30:26,758 but I am confident. We will find the resources to do that. 846 00:30:27,225 --> 00:30:32,498 Jacky led a question Jack Yeah. 847 00:30:32,498 --> 00:30:35,368 Jacky led a question Jack Yeah. I’ve got a question for Meryl 848 00:30:35,368 --> 00:30:36,969 I’ve got a question for Meryl hey, I’m looking at a report 849 00:30:36,969 --> 00:30:38,337 hey, I’m looking at a report released about three years ago 850 00:30:38,337 --> 00:30:40,739 released about three years ago by the legislative auditor in 851 00:30:40,739 --> 00:30:42,241 by the legislative auditor in Louisiana that found numerous 852 00:30:42,241 --> 00:30:43,441 Louisiana that found numerous questionable financial 853 00:30:43,441 --> 00:30:45,244 questionable financial purchases and decisions during 854 00:30:45,244 --> 00:30:48,313 purchases and decisions during your time is in there like 855 00:30:48,313 --> 00:30:49,848 your time is in there like using public money to buy 856 00:30:49,848 --> 00:30:52,384 using public money to buy personal appliances like TVs, 857 00:30:52,384 --> 00:30:54,219 personal appliances like TVs, having routes and homes and and 858 00:30:54,219 --> 00:30:57,823 having routes and homes and and nearly 200 times and and more. 859 00:30:57,823 --> 00:31:00,592 nearly 200 times and and more. What did you learn from maybe 860 00:31:00,592 --> 00:31:03,061 What did you learn from maybe your time and Angola, 861 00:31:03,061 --> 00:31:04,162 your time and Angola, especially in the end, and I’m 862 00:31:04,162 --> 00:31:05,830 especially in the end, and I’m sure you know, Mississippi has 863 00:31:05,830 --> 00:31:07,766 sure you know, Mississippi has its own issues with Chriss Epps 864 00:31:07,766 --> 00:31:09,735 its own issues with Chriss Epps and in financial misspellings. 865 00:31:09,735 --> 00:31:11,169 and in financial misspellings. what can you say to the people 866 00:31:11,169 --> 00:31:12,538 what can you say to the people of Mississippi who just put 867 00:31:12,538 --> 00:31:13,705 of Mississippi who just put them into this that you know 868 00:31:13,705 --> 00:31:17,342 them into this that you know you’re gonna be a good steward 869 00:31:17,342 --> 00:31:20,012 you’re gonna be a good steward and watchdog of our tax money. 870 00:31:20,012 --> 00:31:21,346 and watchdog of our tax money. I think what’s important is 871 00:31:21,346 --> 00:31:22,915 I think what’s important is that that those allegations 872 00:31:22,915 --> 00:31:24,417 that that those allegations were unfounded that there was 873 00:31:24,417 --> 00:31:28,353 were unfounded that there was no crime committed. So what we 874 00:31:28,353 --> 00:31:30,756 no crime committed. So what we have to do is avoid the head of 875 00:31:30,756 --> 00:31:31,557 have to do is avoid the head of propriety. We will continue to 876 00:31:31,557 --> 00:31:33,358 propriety. We will continue to do that. I’ve done that 877 00:31:33,358 --> 00:31:36,595 do that. I’ve done that throughout my career and you’re 878 00:31:36,595 --> 00:31:37,763 throughout my career and you’re gonna get investigation. It’s 879 00:31:37,763 --> 00:31:39,197 gonna get investigation. It’s gonna happen and we need that 880 00:31:39,197 --> 00:31:41,366 gonna happen and we need that that’s good but it was 881 00:31:41,366 --> 00:31:42,168 that’s good but it was unfounded as far as any wrong, 882 00:31:42,168 --> 00:31:43,502 unfounded as far as any wrong, doing and ethics violations or 883 00:31:43,502 --> 00:31:46,806 doing and ethics violations or what have you? 884 00:31:48,674 --> 00:31:50,042 Commissioner How long will it 885 00:31:50,042 --> 00:31:52,844 Commissioner How long will it be before you actually put in a 886 00:31:52,844 --> 00:31:55,181 be before you actually put in a new staff for yourself or are 887 00:31:55,181 --> 00:31:55,881 new staff for yourself or are you going to go with the 888 00:31:55,881 --> 00:31:59,185 you going to go with the existing staff? 889 00:32:00,752 --> 00:32:04,323 Excuse me you’re own staff at 890 00:32:04,323 --> 00:32:05,290 Excuse me you’re own staff at the Department of Corrections, 891 00:32:05,290 --> 00:32:06,625 the Department of Corrections, the people that you’re going to 892 00:32:06,625 --> 00:32:08,261 the people that you’re going to have working with you working 893 00:32:08,261 --> 00:32:09,895 have working with you working on budget working on the 894 00:32:09,895 --> 00:32:12,698 on budget working on the prisons working on prisoners. 895 00:32:12,698 --> 00:32:14,866 prisons working on prisoners. I’m assuming that with every 896 00:32:14,866 --> 00:32:16,969 I’m assuming that with every new administration you bring in 897 00:32:16,969 --> 00:32:19,271 new administration you bring in new people. how long before you 898 00:32:19,271 --> 00:32:20,639 new people. how long before you have your new team in place or 899 00:32:20,639 --> 00:32:21,807 have your new team in place or are you going to use the 900 00:32:21,807 --> 00:32:23,141 are you going to use the existing well? I think you have 901 00:32:23,141 --> 00:32:24,277 existing well? I think you have a lot of good people here in 902 00:32:24,277 --> 00:32:25,177 a lot of good people here in the Mississippi Department of 903 00:32:25,177 --> 00:32:27,079 the Mississippi Department of Corrections and I’m new. This 904 00:32:27,079 --> 00:32:28,347 Corrections and I’m new. This is my first day and so I can’t 905 00:32:28,347 --> 00:32:30,882 is my first day and so I can’t really address. Question 906 00:32:30,882 --> 00:32:32,884 really address. Question Because I haven’t even been in 907 00:32:32,884 --> 00:32:33,552 Because I haven’t even been in the door, I don’t know where 908 00:32:33,552 --> 00:32:35,921 the door, I don’t know where the building so we got hold up 909 00:32:35,921 --> 00:32:39,157 the building so we got hold up on that. 910 00:32:45,331 --> 00:32:47,333 This is the question for the 911 00:32:47,333 --> 00:32:49,034 This is the question for the governor and for Shawn first of 912 00:32:49,034 --> 00:32:50,469 governor and for Shawn first of all for the governor, I was 913 00:32:50,469 --> 00:32:51,937 all for the governor, I was talking about public safety 914 00:32:51,937 --> 00:32:54,273 talking about public safety today, the new Commissioner, 915 00:32:54,273 --> 00:32:56,108 today, the new Commissioner, How long do you think it’ll be 916 00:32:56,108 --> 00:32:57,510 How long do you think it’ll be until DM’s are open another 917 00:32:57,510 --> 00:32:59,879 until DM’s are open another question for Shawn if you can 918 00:32:59,879 --> 00:33:02,381 question for Shawn if you can outline some top priorities for 919 00:33:02,381 --> 00:33:03,949 outline some top priorities for the Department to go forward to 920 00:33:03,949 --> 00:33:06,451 the Department to go forward to streamline the DMVs, make them 921 00:33:06,451 --> 00:33:07,986 streamline the DMVs, make them easier to access and cuz there 922 00:33:07,986 --> 00:33:11,056 easier to access and cuz there have been talk of moving the 923 00:33:11,056 --> 00:33:11,923 have been talk of moving the DMV under Secretary of State’s 924 00:33:11,923 --> 00:33:15,727 DMV under Secretary of State’s office. Well, thank you for. 925 00:33:44,723 --> 00:33:47,258 we do believe that we are close 926 00:33:47,258 --> 00:33:48,894 we do believe that we are close to being up to issue guidelines 927 00:33:48,894 --> 00:33:51,430 to being up to issue guidelines to get them back open things 928 00:33:51,430 --> 00:33:54,733 to get them back open things such as having appointments, 929 00:33:54,733 --> 00:33:55,701 such as having appointments, keeping people in their cars so 930 00:33:55,701 --> 00:33:57,669 keeping people in their cars so that they’re not gathering 931 00:33:57,669 --> 00:34:00,338 that they’re not gathering inside in large groups in this 932 00:34:00,338 --> 00:34:00,940 inside in large groups in this relatively small buildings, 933 00:34:00,940 --> 00:34:02,808 relatively small buildings, things such as that I’m 934 00:34:02,808 --> 00:34:03,775 things such as that I’m confident that we’ll be able to 935 00:34:03,775 --> 00:34:05,743 confident that we’ll be able to get those open as quickly as 936 00:34:05,743 --> 00:34:07,212 get those open as quickly as possible. but let’s not kid 937 00:34:07,212 --> 00:34:08,447 possible. but let’s not kid ourselves. You know I’ve I’ve 938 00:34:08,447 --> 00:34:10,048 ourselves. You know I’ve I’ve sat here for weeks and weeks on 939 00:34:10,048 --> 00:34:11,083 sat here for weeks and weeks on end and I’ve looked at this 940 00:34:11,083 --> 00:34:11,983 end and I’ve looked at this camera and I’ve told the truth 941 00:34:11,983 --> 00:34:14,153 camera and I’ve told the truth to the people of Mississippi. 942 00:34:14,153 --> 00:34:17,757 to the people of Mississippi. The challenges that we have at 943 00:34:17,757 --> 00:34:18,557 The challenges that we have at our the Department of Motor 944 00:34:18,557 --> 00:34:19,525 our the Department of Motor Vehicles, as well as the towns 945 00:34:19,525 --> 00:34:21,693 Vehicles, as well as the towns we have at other agencies with 946 00:34:21,693 --> 00:34:23,329 we have at other agencies with respect to making sure that 947 00:34:23,329 --> 00:34:25,664 respect to making sure that that we are business friendly 948 00:34:25,664 --> 00:34:27,198 that we are business friendly are gonna be compounded by the 949 00:34:27,198 --> 00:34:28,767 are gonna be compounded by the fact that we have Cove 19. It’s 950 00:34:28,767 --> 00:34:30,268 fact that we have Cove 19. It’s the fact that we’ve had a 951 00:34:30,268 --> 00:34:31,570 the fact that we’ve had a number of weeks where we’re not 952 00:34:31,570 --> 00:34:32,838 number of weeks where we’re not being able to issue those 953 00:34:32,838 --> 00:34:34,539 being able to issue those licenses is certainly going to 954 00:34:34,539 --> 00:34:35,507 licenses is certainly going to be challenging. It’s gonna 955 00:34:35,507 --> 00:34:36,875 be challenging. It’s gonna create a challenge. You’re 956 00:34:36,875 --> 00:34:37,809 create a challenge. You’re gonna have to work with us. I 957 00:34:37,809 --> 00:34:38,877 gonna have to work with us. I know it’s challenging. I know 958 00:34:38,877 --> 00:34:40,078 know it’s challenging. I know it’s not gonna be the easiest 959 00:34:40,078 --> 00:34:41,480 it’s not gonna be the easiest thing to do but we are 960 00:34:41,480 --> 00:34:45,817 thing to do but we are committed to. It done in a way 961 00:34:45,817 --> 00:34:47,285 committed to. It done in a way that is in the best interest of 962 00:34:47,285 --> 00:34:48,754 that is in the best interest of the citizens of our state. As I 963 00:34:48,754 --> 00:34:50,222 the citizens of our state. As I said about corrections. I’ll 964 00:34:50,222 --> 00:34:51,690 said about corrections. I’ll say it about every other agency 965 00:34:51,690 --> 00:34:53,024 say it about every other agency that reports to the governor. 966 00:34:53,024 --> 00:34:55,861 that reports to the governor. We’re not here to hide our 967 00:34:55,861 --> 00:34:58,364 We’re not here to hide our problems. We’re here to fix our 968 00:34:58,364 --> 00:34:59,698 problems. We’re here to fix our problems. I believe that’s my 969 00:34:59,698 --> 00:35:01,800 problems. I believe that’s my job and my responsibility and 970 00:35:01,800 --> 00:35:03,568 job and my responsibility and I’m committed to do it. so 971 00:35:03,568 --> 00:35:06,071 I’m committed to do it. so thank you governor you you, you 972 00:35:06,071 --> 00:35:07,439 thank you governor you you, you know, obviously one of the 973 00:35:07,439 --> 00:35:09,107 know, obviously one of the priorities and you brought it 974 00:35:09,107 --> 00:35:10,475 priorities and you brought it up and I think I mentioned it 975 00:35:10,475 --> 00:35:11,810 up and I think I mentioned it originally is trying to do 976 00:35:11,810 --> 00:35:14,213 originally is trying to do things a little bit. When it 977 00:35:14,213 --> 00:35:16,749 things a little bit. When it becomes to driver’s license 978 00:35:16,749 --> 00:35:20,519 becomes to driver’s license services and the DMV and so you 979 00:35:20,519 --> 00:35:21,853 services and the DMV and so you know, I think while things are 980 00:35:21,853 --> 00:35:23,488 know, I think while things are down it’s it’s a great 981 00:35:23,488 --> 00:35:24,923 down it’s it’s a great opportunity to take a look at 982 00:35:24,923 --> 00:35:26,659 opportunity to take a look at the way operations have been 983 00:35:26,659 --> 00:35:29,794 the way operations have been done and try to find ways to 984 00:35:29,794 --> 00:35:30,796 done and try to find ways to improve and make it better so 985 00:35:30,796 --> 00:35:32,231 improve and make it better so that when we do open, 986 00:35:32,231 --> 00:35:33,198 that when we do open, obviously, there’s gonna be a 987 00:35:33,198 --> 00:35:34,400 obviously, there’s gonna be a lot of people showing up to get 988 00:35:34,400 --> 00:35:37,068 lot of people showing up to get driver’s license and we wanna 989 00:35:37,068 --> 00:35:38,170 driver’s license and we wanna be able to handle that and we 990 00:35:38,170 --> 00:35:40,738 be able to handle that and we wanna be able to do it in a 991 00:35:40,738 --> 00:35:41,706 wanna be able to do it in a efficient manner, which serves 992 00:35:41,706 --> 00:35:42,541 efficient manner, which serves the public. I’ve had the 993 00:35:42,541 --> 00:35:45,210 the public. I’ve had the opportunity to. A business 994 00:35:45,210 --> 00:35:47,212 opportunity to. A business family I’ve operated my own 995 00:35:47,212 --> 00:35:48,714 family I’ve operated my own businesses. it comes down to 996 00:35:48,714 --> 00:35:49,881 businesses. it comes down to customer service and somewhere 997 00:35:49,881 --> 00:35:52,184 customer service and somewhere like that and and nothing makes 998 00:35:52,184 --> 00:35:53,218 like that and and nothing makes people matter than having to 999 00:35:53,218 --> 00:35:54,019 people matter than having to get somewhere and wait for 1000 00:35:54,019 --> 00:35:55,487 get somewhere and wait for three or four hours to get 1001 00:35:55,487 --> 00:35:56,756 three or four hours to get something they need. I believe 1002 00:35:56,756 --> 00:35:58,957 something they need. I believe that there’s ways that we can, 1003 00:35:58,957 --> 00:36:01,359 that there’s ways that we can, we can fix that and get people 1004 00:36:01,359 --> 00:36:04,263 we can fix that and get people in and get people out and save 1005 00:36:04,263 --> 00:36:06,732 in and get people out and save time for the citizens of 1006 00:36:06,732 --> 00:36:08,701 time for the citizens of Mississippi. in addition, one 1007 00:36:08,701 --> 00:36:09,668 Mississippi. in addition, one of the top four is gonna be 1008 00:36:09,668 --> 00:36:11,036 of the top four is gonna be looking at ways to improve the 1009 00:36:11,036 --> 00:36:14,840 looking at ways to improve the crime lab. there’s been a delay 1010 00:36:14,840 --> 00:36:16,242 crime lab. there’s been a delay in in the turnover when it 1011 00:36:16,242 --> 00:36:17,242 in in the turnover when it comes to the mission of 1012 00:36:17,242 --> 00:36:18,142 comes to the mission of evidence to the crime Lab for 1013 00:36:18,142 --> 00:36:21,447 evidence to the crime Lab for analysis that. As a result in 1014 00:36:21,447 --> 00:36:23,782 analysis that. As a result in delays and trials and delays in 1015 00:36:23,782 --> 00:36:25,250 delays and trials and delays in the criminal Justice system, we 1016 00:36:25,250 --> 00:36:27,485 the criminal Justice system, we have to do better and you know 1017 00:36:27,485 --> 00:36:28,754 have to do better and you know part of being a good 1018 00:36:28,754 --> 00:36:30,188 part of being a good administrator in my mind is 1019 00:36:30,188 --> 00:36:31,489 administrator in my mind is looking at the way things are 1020 00:36:31,489 --> 00:36:32,691 looking at the way things are done and improving upon them. I 1021 00:36:32,691 --> 00:36:36,295 done and improving upon them. I can say this unequivocally my 1022 00:36:36,295 --> 00:36:38,196 can say this unequivocally my intent is to get here. do a 1023 00:36:38,196 --> 00:36:40,466 intent is to get here. do a good job leave the Department 1024 00:36:40,466 --> 00:36:41,767 good job leave the Department better than I found it and 1025 00:36:41,767 --> 00:36:43,268 better than I found it and that’s not saying anything 1026 00:36:43,268 --> 00:36:44,303 that’s not saying anything about my predecessors, not 1027 00:36:44,303 --> 00:36:45,069 about my predecessors, not doing a good job. I think 1028 00:36:45,069 --> 00:36:46,839 doing a good job. I think they’ve done an excellent job. 1029 00:36:46,839 --> 00:36:47,939 they’ve done an excellent job. I hope whoever follows me up. 1030 00:36:47,939 --> 00:36:48,607 I hope whoever follows me up. we’ll look at the job I’ve 1031 00:36:48,607 --> 00:36:51,642 we’ll look at the job I’ve done. To find ways to improve 1032 00:36:51,642 --> 00:36:54,145 done. To find ways to improve the agency and that has to be a 1033 00:36:54,145 --> 00:36:56,081 the agency and that has to be a constant theme and it has to be 1034 00:36:56,081 --> 00:36:58,484 constant theme and it has to be a constant desire for whoever 1035 00:36:58,484 --> 00:37:01,253 a constant desire for whoever is taking over in a leadership 1036 00:37:01,253 --> 00:37:03,021 is taking over in a leadership role so those will be two of 1037 00:37:03,021 --> 00:37:05,357 role so those will be two of the areas we’re concerned also 1038 00:37:05,357 --> 00:37:06,492 the areas we’re concerned also I wanna work with the 1039 00:37:06,492 --> 00:37:07,759 I wanna work with the Mississippi Bureau of 1040 00:37:07,759 --> 00:37:09,261 Mississippi Bureau of Investigation and narcotics as 1041 00:37:09,261 --> 00:37:10,729 Investigation and narcotics as well as our state troopers to 1042 00:37:10,729 --> 00:37:13,265 well as our state troopers to help improve their safety and 1043 00:37:13,265 --> 00:37:14,933 help improve their safety and help them improve what it is 1044 00:37:14,933 --> 00:37:17,035 help them improve what it is that they do as you all know we 1045 00:37:17,035 --> 00:37:18,904 that they do as you all know we recently had a judge in 1046 00:37:18,904 --> 00:37:19,771 recently had a judge in Meridian, Mississippi that was 1047 00:37:19,771 --> 00:37:22,374 Meridian, Mississippi that was shot one to assist local law 1048 00:37:22,374 --> 00:37:23,308 shot one to assist local law enforcement and to get to the 1049 00:37:23,308 --> 00:37:26,244 enforcement and to get to the bottom of that case and expand. 1050 00:37:26,244 --> 00:37:28,514 bottom of that case and expand. In my mind, the services 1051 00:37:28,514 --> 00:37:29,848 In my mind, the services offered to local law 1052 00:37:29,848 --> 00:37:31,316 offered to local law enforcement through our 1053 00:37:31,316 --> 00:37:32,384 enforcement through our Department and those are my 1054 00:37:32,384 --> 00:37:33,852 Department and those are my probably my top levels of 1055 00:37:33,852 --> 00:37:36,254 probably my top levels of concern right now, much like 1056 00:37:36,254 --> 00:37:37,856 concern right now, much like Commissioner Kayne mentioned 1057 00:37:37,856 --> 00:37:38,657 Commissioner Kayne mentioned I’m gonna get in there. We’re 1058 00:37:38,657 --> 00:37:39,591 I’m gonna get in there. We’re gonna have 90 days. I’m gonna 1059 00:37:39,591 --> 00:37:41,692 gonna have 90 days. I’m gonna do an overall assessment and 1060 00:37:41,692 --> 00:37:42,661 do an overall assessment and should be able to report back 1061 00:37:42,661 --> 00:37:44,262 should be able to report back to all of you other areas of 1062 00:37:44,262 --> 00:37:45,330 to all of you other areas of concerns and improvements that 1063 00:37:45,330 --> 00:37:46,665 concerns and improvements that I hope to make over the next 1064 00:37:46,665 --> 00:37:49,734 I hope to make over the next year. 1065 00:37:50,268 --> 00:37:52,404 Question for the judge, but for 1066 00:37:52,404 --> 00:37:53,839 Question for the judge, but for you first Governor Reeves, why 1067 00:37:53,839 --> 00:37:56,208 you first Governor Reeves, why did you decide not to hire 1068 00:37:56,208 --> 00:37:58,544 did you decide not to hire someone who had police officer 1069 00:37:58,544 --> 00:38:00,412 someone who had police officer background in any form of 1070 00:38:00,412 --> 00:38:02,280 background in any form of fashion and that nature? well? 1071 00:38:02,280 --> 00:38:04,282 fashion and that nature? well? what I would tell you is We’ve 1072 00:38:04,282 --> 00:38:07,319 what I would tell you is We’ve got some fantastic people both 1073 00:38:07,319 --> 00:38:08,887 got some fantastic people both internally at the Department 1074 00:38:08,887 --> 00:38:10,288 internally at the Department and some fantastic people with 1075 00:38:10,288 --> 00:38:12,958 and some fantastic people with local law enforcement agencies 1076 00:38:12,958 --> 00:38:16,628 local law enforcement agencies I’ve communicated very 1077 00:38:16,628 --> 00:38:18,296 I’ve communicated very regularly with them. I can’t 1078 00:38:18,296 --> 00:38:19,097 regularly with them. I can’t tell you how many sheriffs 1079 00:38:19,097 --> 00:38:20,265 tell you how many sheriffs across the state where some of 1080 00:38:20,265 --> 00:38:23,635 across the state where some of my biggest. 1081 00:38:23,902 --> 00:38:25,237 During the campaign last year, 1082 00:38:25,237 --> 00:38:27,639 During the campaign last year, we travel, we went to virtually 1083 00:38:27,639 --> 00:38:29,441 we travel, we went to virtually every County and had support 1084 00:38:29,441 --> 00:38:30,976 every County and had support and we’ve had a lot of 1085 00:38:30,976 --> 00:38:33,211 and we’ve had a lot of conversations and what what I 1086 00:38:33,211 --> 00:38:35,113 conversations and what what I saw and what I’ve seen in my 1087 00:38:35,113 --> 00:38:37,115 saw and what I’ve seen in my eight years as lieutenant 1088 00:38:37,115 --> 00:38:38,316 eight years as lieutenant governor, but what I saw in the 1089 00:38:38,316 --> 00:38:40,686 governor, but what I saw in the in the selection process with 1090 00:38:40,686 --> 00:38:42,454 in the selection process with the Department of Corrections 1091 00:38:42,454 --> 00:38:46,191 the Department of Corrections is I was reminded by Sean’s 1092 00:38:46,191 --> 00:38:47,892 is I was reminded by Sean’s leadership skills. it’s his 1093 00:38:47,892 --> 00:38:49,627 leadership skills. it’s his leadership skills because the 1094 00:38:49,627 --> 00:38:51,162 leadership skills because the Department of Public Safety has 1095 00:38:51,162 --> 00:38:52,464 Department of Public Safety has a lot of different sub agencies 1096 00:38:52,464 --> 00:38:55,868 a lot of different sub agencies that do. Of different things, 1097 00:38:55,868 --> 00:38:57,035 that do. Of different things, he talked about the crime lab 1098 00:38:57,035 --> 00:38:58,303 he talked about the crime lab for one of the things that we 1099 00:38:58,303 --> 00:39:01,373 for one of the things that we have to fix and improve is at 1100 00:39:01,373 --> 00:39:03,875 have to fix and improve is at the crime lab because and I 1101 00:39:03,875 --> 00:39:06,244 the crime lab because and I think his experience as a as a 1102 00:39:06,244 --> 00:39:07,612 think his experience as a as a prosecutor as an assistant 1103 00:39:07,612 --> 00:39:08,881 prosecutor as an assistant district attorney for a number 1104 00:39:08,881 --> 00:39:10,683 district attorney for a number of years is gonna help us 1105 00:39:10,683 --> 00:39:13,218 of years is gonna help us understand what these local 1106 00:39:13,218 --> 00:39:14,720 understand what these local jurisdictions these local DA’s 1107 00:39:14,720 --> 00:39:16,889 jurisdictions these local DA’s these local ADA these local 1108 00:39:16,889 --> 00:39:18,190 these local ADA these local sheriffs the frustration that 1109 00:39:18,190 --> 00:39:21,260 sheriffs the frustration that they have had and it’s no one 1110 00:39:21,260 --> 00:39:22,494 they have had and it’s no one ’s, No one individuals 1111 00:39:22,494 --> 00:39:23,294 ’s, No one individuals particular fault. It’s just 1112 00:39:23,294 --> 00:39:25,797 particular fault. It’s just reality and so we’ve. Find a 1113 00:39:25,797 --> 00:39:28,300 reality and so we’ve. Find a way to go out and improve the 1114 00:39:28,300 --> 00:39:29,767 way to go out and improve the quality and the quantity of 1115 00:39:29,767 --> 00:39:31,036 quality and the quantity of staffing at the crime lab. 1116 00:39:31,036 --> 00:39:33,705 staffing at the crime lab. We’ve got to make sure that we 1117 00:39:33,705 --> 00:39:36,274 We’ve got to make sure that we have a a leader there that is 1118 00:39:36,274 --> 00:39:37,776 have a a leader there that is sensitive to the needs of our 1119 00:39:37,776 --> 00:39:41,312 sensitive to the needs of our local elected officials. and so 1120 00:39:41,312 --> 00:39:42,681 local elected officials. and so I think what you need more than 1121 00:39:42,681 --> 00:39:43,882 I think what you need more than anything else, whether it’s at 1122 00:39:43,882 --> 00:39:44,516 anything else, whether it’s at the Department of Corrections 1123 00:39:44,516 --> 00:39:46,317 the Department of Corrections or it’s at the Department of 1124 00:39:46,317 --> 00:39:47,786 or it’s at the Department of Public Safety, or if it’s at 1125 00:39:47,786 --> 00:39:49,587 Public Safety, or if it’s at the mayor or at the city of 1126 00:39:49,587 --> 00:39:51,990 the mayor or at the city of Vicksburg, is you need a leader 1127 00:39:51,990 --> 00:39:52,658 Vicksburg, is you need a leader who has real leadership 1128 00:39:52,658 --> 00:39:53,758 who has real leadership qualities? Sean Tindall 1129 00:39:53,758 --> 00:39:57,696 qualities? Sean Tindall certainly. That you’re gonna 1130 00:39:57,696 --> 00:39:59,164 certainly. That you’re gonna buy it if you’ve never been in 1131 00:39:59,164 --> 00:40:01,900 buy it if you’ve never been in the position that those Highway 1132 00:40:01,900 --> 00:40:02,534 the position that those Highway Patrol that you will work with 1133 00:40:02,534 --> 00:40:05,603 Patrol that you will work with have 1134 00:40:05,736 --> 00:40:08,006 been in the forefront of bain, 1135 00:40:08,006 --> 00:40:09,874 been in the forefront of bain, a criminal or some or some of 1136 00:40:09,874 --> 00:40:10,676 a criminal or some or some of the stuff that they go. Hi. How 1137 00:40:10,676 --> 00:40:12,745 the stuff that they go. Hi. How are you gonna make them get on 1138 00:40:12,745 --> 00:40:14,145 are you gonna make them get on the same page as you oh, I 1139 00:40:14,145 --> 00:40:15,514 the same page as you oh, I would I would initially point 1140 00:40:15,514 --> 00:40:17,115 would I would initially point to my career as a prosecutor. I 1141 00:40:17,115 --> 00:40:19,350 to my career as a prosecutor. I spent five years in the as an 1142 00:40:19,350 --> 00:40:20,719 spent five years in the as an assistant DA in Harrison, 1143 00:40:20,719 --> 00:40:22,755 assistant DA in Harrison, Hancock And Stone County and I 1144 00:40:22,755 --> 00:40:24,690 Hancock And Stone County and I also the lead assistant DA for 1145 00:40:24,690 --> 00:40:28,761 also the lead assistant DA for Hanan. And Stone County as part 1146 00:40:28,761 --> 00:40:30,195 Hanan. And Stone County as part of that job, I was required to 1147 00:40:30,195 --> 00:40:30,828 of that job, I was required to work very closely with law 1148 00:40:30,828 --> 00:40:32,797 work very closely with law enforcement throughout my 1149 00:40:32,797 --> 00:40:34,365 enforcement throughout my career first starting off with 1150 00:40:34,365 --> 00:40:35,233 career first starting off with property crimes working my way 1151 00:40:35,233 --> 00:40:37,769 property crimes working my way up to drug crimes and working 1152 00:40:37,769 --> 00:40:39,104 up to drug crimes and working my way up pass that to violent 1153 00:40:39,104 --> 00:40:41,305 my way up pass that to violent crimes and handling murders and 1154 00:40:41,305 --> 00:40:42,975 crimes and handling murders and rapes and everything and and 1155 00:40:42,975 --> 00:40:45,310 rapes and everything and and all that until a close working 1156 00:40:45,310 --> 00:40:46,779 all that until a close working relationship with law 1157 00:40:46,779 --> 00:40:48,847 relationship with law enforcement after that, I 1158 00:40:48,847 --> 00:40:49,747 enforcement after that, I became a city prosecutor for 1159 00:40:49,747 --> 00:40:51,149 became a city prosecutor for the city of Biloxi, again 1160 00:40:51,149 --> 00:40:53,217 the city of Biloxi, again working with law enforcement 1161 00:40:53,217 --> 00:40:54,452 working with law enforcement and if you look back in my 1162 00:40:54,452 --> 00:40:56,688 and if you look back in my legislative career, I always 1163 00:40:56,688 --> 00:40:57,222 legislative career, I always worked well with law 1164 00:40:57,222 --> 00:40:58,456 worked well with law enforcement. I was recognized 1165 00:40:58,456 --> 00:40:59,390 enforcement. I was recognized as a law enforcement Senator 1166 00:40:59,390 --> 00:41:00,425 as a law enforcement Senator legislator of the year during 1167 00:41:00,425 --> 00:41:03,762 legislator of the year during one of my. 1168 00:41:03,762 --> 00:41:03,795 one of my. And 1169 00:41:03,795 --> 00:41:05,463 And and again, it was because 1170 00:41:05,463 --> 00:41:06,832 And and again, it was because of my willingness to sit down 1171 00:41:06,832 --> 00:41:09,400 of my willingness to sit down and work with and listen to the 1172 00:41:09,400 --> 00:41:10,869 and work with and listen to the members of law enforcement 1173 00:41:10,869 --> 00:41:12,704 members of law enforcement community, and I think anybody 1174 00:41:12,704 --> 00:41:16,809 community, and I think anybody that knows me knows that I have 1175 00:41:16,809 --> 00:41:19,011 that knows me knows that I have a I guess a unique ability to 1176 00:41:19,011 --> 00:41:20,278 a I guess a unique ability to sit down and talk to anybody 1177 00:41:20,278 --> 00:41:22,314 sit down and talk to anybody and listen to anybody and value 1178 00:41:22,314 --> 00:41:23,148 and listen to anybody and value what they have to say and they 1179 00:41:23,148 --> 00:41:25,150 what they have to say and they can see it in my eyes and I 1180 00:41:25,150 --> 00:41:26,084 can see it in my eyes and I think that’s part of what’s 1181 00:41:26,084 --> 00:41:27,719 think that’s part of what’s made me a good leader over the 1182 00:41:27,719 --> 00:41:29,287 made me a good leader over the years. I grew up in a very 1183 00:41:29,287 --> 00:41:30,088 years. I grew up in a very humble background as I 1184 00:41:30,088 --> 00:41:31,923 humble background as I mentioned my grandfather. A 1185 00:41:31,923 --> 00:41:34,159 mentioned my grandfather. A sheriff’s deputy in Stone 1186 00:41:34,159 --> 00:41:35,027 sheriff’s deputy in Stone County my parents were 1187 00:41:35,027 --> 00:41:36,494 County my parents were separated when I was born. My 1188 00:41:36,494 --> 00:41:38,730 separated when I was born. My mom was a single mother. you 1189 00:41:38,730 --> 00:41:41,400 mom was a single mother. you know I I’ve been able to obtain 1190 00:41:41,400 --> 00:41:42,700 know I I’ve been able to obtain a certain level of success 1191 00:41:42,700 --> 00:41:44,468 a certain level of success through great mentors and hard 1192 00:41:44,468 --> 00:41:47,671 through great mentors and hard work and and I think when it 1193 00:41:47,671 --> 00:41:49,240 work and and I think when it comes to working with the 1194 00:41:49,240 --> 00:41:52,110 comes to working with the members of the Highway Patrol, 1195 00:41:52,110 --> 00:41:52,911 members of the Highway Patrol, the Bureau of Investigation, 1196 00:41:52,911 --> 00:41:54,746 the Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Narcotics and in 1197 00:41:54,746 --> 00:41:56,114 the Bureau of Narcotics and in particular, even though I’m 1198 00:41:56,114 --> 00:41:57,582 particular, even though I’m not, I don’t have any law 1199 00:41:57,582 --> 00:41:58,683 not, I don’t have any law enforcement background from 1200 00:41:58,683 --> 00:42:01,152 enforcement background from their perspective. it it’s my 1201 00:42:01,152 --> 00:42:02,220 their perspective. it it’s my willingness and hard work and 1202 00:42:02,220 --> 00:42:06,792 willingness and hard work and and and. My ability to hear 1203 00:42:06,792 --> 00:42:08,927 and and. My ability to hear their concerns and then be an 1204 00:42:08,927 --> 00:42:11,196 their concerns and then be an advocate if you will for what 1205 00:42:11,196 --> 00:42:12,229 advocate if you will for what they need when it comes to work 1206 00:42:12,229 --> 00:42:12,931 they need when it comes to work with the Legislature and the 1207 00:42:12,931 --> 00:42:14,833 with the Legislature and the executive branch to say, Hey, 1208 00:42:14,833 --> 00:42:16,467 executive branch to say, Hey, you know my guys are out there 1209 00:42:16,467 --> 00:42:17,468 you know my guys are out there in the field, putting their 1210 00:42:17,468 --> 00:42:19,337 in the field, putting their life on the line. They need new 1211 00:42:19,337 --> 00:42:21,639 life on the line. They need new cars. They need better 1212 00:42:21,639 --> 00:42:23,174 cars. They need better equipment. They need more 1213 00:42:23,174 --> 00:42:24,877 equipment. They need more training. They need these 1214 00:42:24,877 --> 00:42:26,778 training. They need these things and I feel like with the 1215 00:42:26,778 --> 00:42:28,179 things and I feel like with the relationship that I’ve built 1216 00:42:28,179 --> 00:42:29,680 relationship that I’ve built with the executive branch and 1217 00:42:29,680 --> 00:42:30,782 with the executive branch and the legislative branch that 1218 00:42:30,782 --> 00:42:32,684 the legislative branch that I’ll be able to serve their 1219 00:42:32,684 --> 00:42:36,154 I’ll be able to serve their needs in a. 1220 00:42:36,187 --> 00:42:37,355 Maybe somebody that just came 1221 00:42:37,355 --> 00:42:38,790 Maybe somebody that just came straight out of the law 1222 00:42:38,790 --> 00:42:41,260 straight out of the law enforcement arena and and I’m 1223 00:42:41,260 --> 00:42:42,727 enforcement arena and and I’m reminded of something my father 1224 00:42:42,727 --> 00:42:43,628 reminded of something my father just passed away used to tell 1225 00:42:43,628 --> 00:42:45,430 just passed away used to tell me, he said. No deal is perfect 1226 00:42:45,430 --> 00:42:47,031 me, he said. No deal is perfect right and I’m not perfect 1227 00:42:47,031 --> 00:42:50,235 right and I’m not perfect either but I bring a lot of 1228 00:42:50,235 --> 00:42:51,636 either but I bring a lot of things to the table that I 1229 00:42:51,636 --> 00:42:53,638 things to the table that I think will will get their 1230 00:42:53,638 --> 00:42:55,272 think will will get their buy-in. Yeah and I wanna I just 1231 00:42:55,272 --> 00:42:58,110 buy-in. Yeah and I wanna I just wanna be clear to the men and 1232 00:42:58,110 --> 00:43:00,178 wanna be clear to the men and women that wear the uniform in 1233 00:43:00,178 --> 00:43:01,379 women that wear the uniform in this state. I am absolutely 1234 00:43:01,379 --> 00:43:02,580 this state. I am absolutely convinced that not only will 1235 00:43:02,580 --> 00:43:06,150 convinced that not only will shown. Your back, I will always 1236 00:43:06,150 --> 00:43:08,219 shown. Your back, I will always have your back and I will do 1237 00:43:08,219 --> 00:43:09,787 have your back and I will do everything in my power to make 1238 00:43:09,787 --> 00:43:13,724 everything in my power to make sure that we are doing our part 1239 00:43:13,724 --> 00:43:15,360 sure that we are doing our part to put you in a position to 1240 00:43:15,360 --> 00:43:16,427 to put you in a position to best protect yourself but also 1241 00:43:16,427 --> 00:43:19,263 best protect yourself but also to protect the men and women of 1242 00:43:19,263 --> 00:43:20,231 to protect the men and women of this great state. Tims 1243 00:43:20,231 --> 00:43:23,801 this great state. Tims Pittsburgh has a question. 1244 00:43:29,740 --> 00:43:31,409 Vicksburg number one industry 1245 00:43:31,409 --> 00:43:33,211 Vicksburg number one industry is tourism this week. We got 1246 00:43:33,211 --> 00:43:35,013 is tourism this week. We got some good news that riverboat 1247 00:43:35,013 --> 00:43:37,749 some good news that riverboat cruises. We’re in late June but 1248 00:43:37,749 --> 00:43:40,785 cruises. We’re in late June but the one area of tourism that 1249 00:43:40,785 --> 00:43:43,388 the one area of tourism that remains to be reopened right 1250 00:43:43,388 --> 00:43:45,891 remains to be reopened right now would be in sports sports 1251 00:43:45,891 --> 00:43:47,558 now would be in sports sports parks in Mississippi, one of 1252 00:43:47,558 --> 00:43:48,860 parks in Mississippi, one of the biggest parts of the state 1253 00:43:48,860 --> 00:43:51,262 the biggest parts of the state last year, 12 point 1254 00:43:51,262 --> 00:43:52,130 last year, 12 point four million dollar impact on 1255 00:43:52,130 --> 00:43:52,864 four million dollar impact on the local economy. they have 1256 00:43:52,864 --> 00:43:54,032 the local economy. they have tournaments scheduled this 1257 00:43:54,032 --> 00:43:57,635 tournaments scheduled this weekend and next week. 1258 00:43:57,835 --> 00:43:59,304 What is the update on the 1259 00:43:59,304 --> 00:44:00,471 What is the update on the possibility of those terms? it 1260 00:44:00,471 --> 00:44:02,174 possibility of those terms? it will be played and what’s the 1261 00:44:02,174 --> 00:44:04,341 will be played and what’s the schedule as far as announcing 1262 00:44:04,341 --> 00:44:05,042 schedule as far as announcing the ease restrictions for those 1263 00:44:05,042 --> 00:44:06,978 the ease restrictions for those type of things Well, Thank you 1264 00:44:06,978 --> 00:44:08,680 type of things Well, Thank you for for your question and and 1265 00:44:08,680 --> 00:44:11,149 for for your question and and and I know that the part there 1266 00:44:11,149 --> 00:44:13,685 and I know that the part there in Vicksburg, The mayor was a 1267 00:44:13,685 --> 00:44:14,920 in Vicksburg, The mayor was a strong advocate for is one of 1268 00:44:14,920 --> 00:44:16,755 strong advocate for is one of the Premier parks in 1269 00:44:16,755 --> 00:44:18,156 the Premier parks in Mississippi, which makes it one 1270 00:44:18,156 --> 00:44:20,225 Mississippi, which makes it one of the Premier parks in 1271 00:44:20,225 --> 00:44:21,292 of the Premier parks in America. what I would tell you 1272 00:44:21,292 --> 00:44:23,328 America. what I would tell you is that the State Health 1273 00:44:23,328 --> 00:44:24,662 is that the State Health Department, Dr Dobbs and I are 1274 00:44:24,662 --> 00:44:26,230 Department, Dr Dobbs and I are having very good conversations 1275 00:44:26,230 --> 00:44:27,065 having very good conversations about ways in which we can get 1276 00:44:27,065 --> 00:44:31,469 about ways in which we can get those back open in a safer. We 1277 00:44:31,469 --> 00:44:34,005 those back open in a safer. We are very near I think putting 1278 00:44:34,005 --> 00:44:36,174 are very near I think putting out guidelines to make sure 1279 00:44:36,174 --> 00:44:37,209 out guidelines to make sure that we protect the individuals 1280 00:44:37,209 --> 00:44:39,177 that we protect the individuals as you know we made a decision 1281 00:44:39,177 --> 00:44:41,745 as you know we made a decision a week or so ago to allow for 1282 00:44:41,745 --> 00:44:42,647 a week or so ago to allow for practices where we expanded the 1283 00:44:42,647 --> 00:44:44,816 practices where we expanded the number of people from 10 to 20 1284 00:44:44,816 --> 00:44:45,883 number of people from 10 to 20 and outdoor gatherings so that 1285 00:44:45,883 --> 00:44:47,485 and outdoor gatherings so that our kids can get back on the 1286 00:44:47,485 --> 00:44:48,820 our kids can get back on the field and be throwing and 1287 00:44:48,820 --> 00:44:50,188 field and be throwing and things such as that. I don’t 1288 00:44:50,188 --> 00:44:52,423 things such as that. I don’t think it’ll be by this weekend 1289 00:44:52,423 --> 00:44:56,461 think it’ll be by this weekend but I do think a very soon we 1290 00:44:56,461 --> 00:44:58,263 but I do think a very soon we will have the opportunity to 1291 00:44:58,263 --> 00:45:00,799 will have the opportunity to get back to playing a ball not 1292 00:45:00,799 --> 00:45:02,633 get back to playing a ball not only for practice but also for 1293 00:45:02,633 --> 00:45:03,167 only for practice but also for tournaments. it’s not gonna 1294 00:45:03,167 --> 00:45:05,670 tournaments. it’s not gonna look exactly the same people. 1295 00:45:05,670 --> 00:45:07,138 look exactly the same people. Gonna have to stay in their 1296 00:45:07,138 --> 00:45:08,406 Gonna have to stay in their vehicles until it’s game time 1297 00:45:08,406 --> 00:45:09,374 vehicles until it’s game time and people will probably not 1298 00:45:09,374 --> 00:45:11,376 and people will probably not gonna be able to gather in and 1299 00:45:11,376 --> 00:45:14,378 gonna be able to gather in and around the the stands. If you 1300 00:45:14,378 --> 00:45:16,281 around the the stands. If you will, we’re gonna have to be in 1301 00:45:16,281 --> 00:45:17,783 will, we’re gonna have to be in lawn chairs and be six feet 1302 00:45:17,783 --> 00:45:19,517 lawn chairs and be six feet apart, but we’ll be able to get 1303 00:45:19,517 --> 00:45:21,686 apart, but we’ll be able to get people back on the field so 1304 00:45:21,686 --> 00:45:23,221 people back on the field so that as we talked about 1305 00:45:23,221 --> 00:45:25,790 that as we talked about yesterday, the the mental 1306 00:45:25,790 --> 00:45:26,657 yesterday, the the mental health issues that have come 1307 00:45:26,657 --> 00:45:30,228 health issues that have come from Covid- 19 are so very 1308 00:45:30,228 --> 00:45:31,529 from Covid- 19 are so very challenging and our kids not 1309 00:45:31,529 --> 00:45:33,931 challenging and our kids not only to our adults that work 1310 00:45:33,931 --> 00:45:34,698 only to our adults that work need some sense of normalcy. 1311 00:45:34,698 --> 00:45:35,299 need some sense of normalcy. Our Kids Need a sense of 1312 00:45:35,299 --> 00:45:37,836 Our Kids Need a sense of normalcy and get them back. The 1313 00:45:37,836 --> 00:45:39,271 normalcy and get them back. The ball fields will help provide 1314 00:45:39,271 --> 00:45:40,338 ball fields will help provide that we just gotta make sure 1315 00:45:40,338 --> 00:45:41,539 that we just gotta make sure we’re at a point where we can 1316 00:45:41,539 --> 00:45:45,743 we’re at a point where we can do it in a safe responsible way 1317 00:45:45,743 --> 00:45:48,313 do it in a safe responsible way by going back to the audit real 1318 00:45:48,313 --> 00:45:49,781 by going back to the audit real quick that was mentioned 1319 00:45:49,781 --> 00:45:52,250 quick that was mentioned governor did you know about 1320 00:45:52,250 --> 00:45:54,218 governor did you know about that? And what is what your 1321 00:45:54,218 --> 00:45:57,422 that? And what is what your thoughts and give you pause and 1322 00:45:57,422 --> 00:45:58,990 thoughts and give you pause and also I was looking for a 1323 00:45:58,990 --> 00:46:00,325 also I was looking for a resume. I don’t see one yet 1324 00:46:00,325 --> 00:46:01,793 resume. I don’t see one yet when you leave Ila and under 1325 00:46:01,793 --> 00:46:04,495 when you leave Ila and under what circumstances, Yeah, what 1326 00:46:04,495 --> 00:46:08,299 what circumstances, Yeah, what I would tell you is that the. 1327 00:46:08,299 --> 00:46:11,836 I would tell you is that the. Search Committee was aware of 1328 00:46:11,836 --> 00:46:14,138 Search Committee was aware of the accusations I was 1329 00:46:14,138 --> 00:46:15,840 the accusations I was personally aware of the 1330 00:46:15,840 --> 00:46:18,243 personally aware of the accusations We did extensive 1331 00:46:18,243 --> 00:46:22,713 accusations We did extensive research and it seemed like 1332 00:46:22,747 --> 00:46:26,451 that that once the politics 1333 00:46:26,451 --> 00:46:29,253 that that once the politics were removed that the 1334 00:46:29,253 --> 00:46:30,889 were removed that the accusations were basically 1335 00:46:30,889 --> 00:46:33,257 accusations were basically dropped and I have absolute 1336 00:46:33,257 --> 00:46:35,760 dropped and I have absolute full confidence in Bea’s 1337 00:46:35,760 --> 00:46:37,062 full confidence in Bea’s ability to change the culture 1338 00:46:37,062 --> 00:46:40,698 ability to change the culture at the Department of. 1339 00:46:40,698 --> 00:46:40,765 at the Department of. I have 1340 00:46:40,765 --> 00:46:42,400 I have the absolute confidence 1341 00:46:42,400 --> 00:46:46,270 I have the absolute confidence that he will do so in a in a 1342 00:46:46,270 --> 00:46:47,439 that he will do so in a in a way that will make all 1343 00:46:47,439 --> 00:46:50,207 way that will make all Mississippians proud. I have 1344 00:46:50,207 --> 00:46:51,343 Mississippians proud. I have zero reservations about 1345 00:46:51,343 --> 00:46:52,510 zero reservations about appointing him to lead the 1346 00:46:52,510 --> 00:46:53,345 appointing him to lead the Department of Corrections. 1347 00:46:53,345 --> 00:46:56,481 Department of Corrections. Thank you. 1348 00:46:58,249 --> 00:47:01,285 How long you and go and just 1349 00:47:01,285 --> 00:47:02,787 How long you and go and just I’m sorry, I can’t repeat it 1350 00:47:02,787 --> 00:47:06,724 I’m sorry, I can’t repeat it again you’re 10 years and going 1351 00:47:06,724 --> 00:47:09,094 again you’re 10 years and going and how long are you in. I was 1352 00:47:09,094 --> 00:47:12,262 and how long are you in. I was there 21 years and you left 1353 00:47:12,262 --> 00:47:16,234 there 21 years and you left just retired. I retired. 1354 00:47:19,471 --> 00:47:23,241 Hannah WCS 1355 00:47:27,379 --> 00:47:31,116 If you were. 1356 00:47:52,671 --> 00:47:56,841 Yes, go ahead. 1357 00:47:56,908 --> 00:47:58,075 We were wondering if you’re 1358 00:47:58,075 --> 00:48:00,645 We were wondering if you’re aware of the church that was a 1359 00:48:00,645 --> 00:48:02,780 aware of the church that was a story about a fire overnight if 1360 00:48:02,780 --> 00:48:04,416 story about a fire overnight if you could comment on that also 1361 00:48:04,416 --> 00:48:06,717 you could comment on that also the statewide stay at home or 1362 00:48:06,717 --> 00:48:08,586 the statewide stay at home or class by the church as the 1363 00:48:08,586 --> 00:48:11,221 class by the church as the Central businesses while Holly 1364 00:48:11,221 --> 00:48:12,823 Central businesses while Holly Springs stay at home or 1365 00:48:12,823 --> 00:48:14,825 Springs stay at home or classifies church as non 1366 00:48:14,825 --> 00:48:15,693 classifies church as non essential and the church has 1367 00:48:15,693 --> 00:48:16,794 essential and the church has given us expectation because of 1368 00:48:16,794 --> 00:48:18,296 given us expectation because of that. do you think this is a 1369 00:48:18,296 --> 00:48:19,431 that. do you think this is a violation of the church 1370 00:48:19,431 --> 00:48:20,898 violation of the church member’s rights and will you be 1371 00:48:20,898 --> 00:48:22,700 member’s rights and will you be keeping track of this 1372 00:48:22,700 --> 00:48:24,669 keeping track of this investigation? I will 1373 00:48:24,669 --> 00:48:27,138 investigation? I will absolutely be I’ll absolutely 1374 00:48:27,138 --> 00:48:28,272 absolutely be I’ll absolutely be keeping track of this 1375 00:48:28,272 --> 00:48:32,177 be keeping track of this investigation if in fact. 1376 00:48:32,210 --> 00:48:33,778 The order in the city of Holly 1377 00:48:33,778 --> 00:48:36,214 The order in the city of Holly Springs says that the church is 1378 00:48:36,214 --> 00:48:37,682 Springs says that the church is not essential and therefore 1379 00:48:37,682 --> 00:48:39,451 not essential and therefore they cannot open. then that 1380 00:48:39,451 --> 00:48:41,686 they cannot open. then that order is in direct violation of 1381 00:48:41,686 --> 00:48:44,255 order is in direct violation of the order that governs the 1382 00:48:44,255 --> 00:48:45,990 the order that governs the state of Mississippi and they 1383 00:48:45,990 --> 00:48:48,293 state of Mississippi and they should cease and desist, said 1384 00:48:48,293 --> 00:48:49,860 should cease and desist, said order. It is very clear that 1385 00:48:49,860 --> 00:48:52,397 order. It is very clear that local municipalities can have 1386 00:48:52,397 --> 00:48:54,665 local municipalities can have guidelines that are more strict 1387 00:48:54,665 --> 00:48:56,234 guidelines that are more strict than the governor’s guidelines, 1388 00:48:56,234 --> 00:48:57,735 than the governor’s guidelines, but they cannot have guidelines 1389 00:48:57,735 --> 00:48:58,436 but they cannot have guidelines that directly conflict with 1390 00:48:58,436 --> 00:49:01,273 that directly conflict with what we have put in place. 1391 00:49:01,273 --> 00:49:03,275 what we have put in place. There’s a reason that we named 1392 00:49:03,275 --> 00:49:04,875 There’s a reason that we named churches essential and the 1393 00:49:04,875 --> 00:49:06,244 churches essential and the reason for that is because I 1394 00:49:06,244 --> 00:49:07,712 reason for that is because I believe very strongly that 1395 00:49:07,712 --> 00:49:09,180 believe very strongly that government does not have the 1396 00:49:09,180 --> 00:49:11,949 government does not have the right to shut down churches. We 1397 00:49:11,949 --> 00:49:13,485 right to shut down churches. We have a freedom of religion in 1398 00:49:13,485 --> 00:49:15,353 have a freedom of religion in this country. We have a 1399 00:49:15,353 --> 00:49:16,153 this country. We have a constitution that guarantees 1400 00:49:16,153 --> 00:49:18,189 constitution that guarantees our right to practice our 1401 00:49:18,189 --> 00:49:20,191 our right to practice our religion. So that’s the reason 1402 00:49:20,191 --> 00:49:22,193 religion. So that’s the reason I named him as essential and 1403 00:49:22,193 --> 00:49:23,660 I named him as essential and said No city, no local 1404 00:49:23,660 --> 00:49:25,196 said No city, no local jurisdiction can shut down 1405 00:49:25,196 --> 00:49:26,897 jurisdiction can shut down churches period. Having said 1406 00:49:26,897 --> 00:49:27,632 churches period. Having said that as you know, you’ve heard 1407 00:49:27,632 --> 00:49:30,802 that as you know, you’ve heard me say this time many times. I 1408 00:49:30,802 --> 00:49:32,871 me say this time many times. I personally got on the phone and 1409 00:49:32,871 --> 00:49:34,305 personally got on the phone and called a number of pastors and 1410 00:49:34,305 --> 00:49:35,740 called a number of pastors and encourage them not to meet 1411 00:49:35,740 --> 00:49:38,743 encourage them not to meet because it wasn’t safe in 1412 00:49:38,743 --> 00:49:39,910 because it wasn’t safe in person most every single one of 1413 00:49:39,910 --> 00:49:42,480 person most every single one of those adhered to my request. I 1414 00:49:42,480 --> 00:49:44,949 those adhered to my request. I have the right to call a pastor 1415 00:49:44,949 --> 00:49:46,885 have the right to call a pastor man a man and say, will you 1416 00:49:46,885 --> 00:49:48,753 man a man and say, will you please not meet They have the 1417 00:49:48,753 --> 00:49:50,387 please not meet They have the right to say yes or they have 1418 00:49:50,387 --> 00:49:52,857 right to say yes or they have the right to say no, however, 1419 00:49:52,857 --> 00:49:55,660 the right to say no, however, as you saw with my friend, the 1420 00:49:55,660 --> 00:49:57,228 as you saw with my friend, the pastor from Natchez when he 1421 00:49:57,228 --> 00:49:59,264 pastor from Natchez when he came here he was very clear, he 1422 00:49:59,264 --> 00:50:00,798 came here he was very clear, he said. If Government’s gonna 1423 00:50:00,798 --> 00:50:01,533 said. If Government’s gonna tell me, I can’t meet then I’m 1424 00:50:01,533 --> 00:50:02,433 tell me, I can’t meet then I’m gonna meet but if my governor 1425 00:50:02,433 --> 00:50:05,669 gonna meet but if my governor ask me. To me, then I will 1426 00:50:05,669 --> 00:50:07,004 ask me. To me, then I will adhere to what he has asked me 1427 00:50:07,004 --> 00:50:08,873 adhere to what he has asked me to do and that’s exactly how 1428 00:50:08,873 --> 00:50:11,276 to do and that’s exactly how we’ve dealt with this and no 1429 00:50:11,276 --> 00:50:12,744 we’ve dealt with this and no local jurisdiction can shut 1430 00:50:12,744 --> 00:50:14,711 local jurisdiction can shut down churches. It’s against 1431 00:50:14,711 --> 00:50:15,946 down churches. It’s against their constitutional rights and 1432 00:50:15,946 --> 00:50:17,748 their constitutional rights and I think the case in Greenville, 1433 00:50:17,748 --> 00:50:20,318 I think the case in Greenville, Mississippi has proven that 1434 00:50:20,318 --> 00:50:23,688 Mississippi has proven that point Judy Jacksons ask a 1435 00:50:23,688 --> 00:50:26,824 point Judy Jacksons ask a question. 1436 00:50:27,725 --> 00:50:30,328 Nick I yes, This is a question 1437 00:50:30,328 --> 00:50:32,096 Nick I yes, This is a question for Earl Payne you were named 1438 00:50:32,096 --> 00:50:34,632 for Earl Payne you were named in a 2014 lawsuit alleging that 1439 00:50:34,632 --> 00:50:35,767 in a 2014 lawsuit alleging that you failed to act swiftly after 1440 00:50:35,767 --> 00:50:38,235 you failed to act swiftly after an inmate reported repeated 1441 00:50:38,235 --> 00:50:40,104 an inmate reported repeated sexual assaults by Angola 1442 00:50:40,104 --> 00:50:41,038 sexual assaults by Angola guard. The Advocate reports 1443 00:50:41,038 --> 00:50:42,439 guard. The Advocate reports that a federal appeals court 1444 00:50:42,439 --> 00:50:43,841 that a federal appeals court panel rejected dismissing you 1445 00:50:43,841 --> 00:50:45,810 panel rejected dismissing you from that case just last year, 1446 00:50:45,810 --> 00:50:46,610 from that case just last year, saying that the inmates 1447 00:50:46,610 --> 00:50:48,880 saying that the inmates testimony quote supports the 1448 00:50:48,880 --> 00:50:49,846 testimony quote supports the finding that the wardens acted 1449 00:50:49,846 --> 00:50:51,515 finding that the wardens acted with deliberate and quote in 1450 00:50:51,515 --> 00:50:53,017 with deliberate and quote in dealing with the victim has 1451 00:50:53,017 --> 00:50:54,251 dealing with the victim has that lawsuit been resolved 1452 00:50:54,251 --> 00:50:56,120 that lawsuit been resolved since and did that experience 1453 00:50:56,120 --> 00:50:57,054 since and did that experience change anything about your 1454 00:50:57,054 --> 00:51:00,391 change anything about your leadership? No-I don’t. We’re 1455 00:51:00,391 --> 00:51:03,928 leadership? No-I don’t. We’re guilty of that and and so 1456 00:51:03,928 --> 00:51:04,963 guilty of that and and so anyway, don’t say anything 1457 00:51:04,963 --> 00:51:06,630 anyway, don’t say anything because we’re gonna protect the 1458 00:51:06,630 --> 00:51:07,766 because we’re gonna protect the inmates and we’re going to 1459 00:51:07,766 --> 00:51:09,834 inmates and we’re going to protect everybody from any sort 1460 00:51:09,834 --> 00:51:11,802 protect everybody from any sort of lawsuit or any sort of 1461 00:51:11,802 --> 00:51:13,871 of lawsuit or any sort of sexual assault or what have you 1462 00:51:13,871 --> 00:51:14,805 sexual assault or what have you and we’re gonna do it to the 1463 00:51:14,805 --> 00:51:15,840 and we’re gonna do it to the best of our ability If we know 1464 00:51:15,840 --> 00:51:18,141 best of our ability If we know it and so and we have the hand 1465 00:51:18,141 --> 00:51:20,411 it and so and we have the hand of it. We’re gonna take action. 1466 00:51:20,411 --> 00:51:21,078 of it. We’re gonna take action. We’re not gonna allow that to 1467 00:51:21,078 --> 00:51:24,215 We’re not gonna allow that to happen. 1468 00:51:24,281 --> 00:51:31,489 W C, I have a question. Oh yes 1469 00:51:31,489 --> 00:51:33,257 W C, I have a question. Oh yes this weekend in Columbus 1470 00:51:33,257 --> 00:51:34,692 this weekend in Columbus Magnolia Motor Speedway is 1471 00:51:34,692 --> 00:51:38,329 Magnolia Motor Speedway is opening up and also coming up 1472 00:51:38,329 --> 00:51:41,065 opening up and also coming up fairly soon is the County fair 1473 00:51:41,065 --> 00:51:42,934 fairly soon is the County fair and as the governor knows 1474 00:51:42,934 --> 00:51:44,635 and as the governor knows there’s so much social distance 1475 00:51:44,635 --> 00:51:48,873 there’s so much social distance Founders Square my question is 1476 00:51:48,873 --> 00:51:51,742 Founders Square my question is what our organizers of these 1477 00:51:51,742 --> 00:51:55,312 what our organizers of these larger scallops that are 1478 00:51:55,312 --> 00:51:56,947 larger scallops that are approaching to they call the 1479 00:51:56,947 --> 00:51:57,782 approaching to they call the Department of Health for a 1480 00:51:57,782 --> 00:52:00,250 Department of Health for a guidance is any guidance. 1481 00:52:00,250 --> 00:52:03,221 guidance is any guidance. Invited to them to make any 1482 00:52:03,221 --> 00:52:05,857 Invited to them to make any decisions about whether to open 1483 00:52:05,857 --> 00:52:08,792 decisions about whether to open not open or have been well 1484 00:52:08,792 --> 00:52:10,127 not open or have been well well. Thank you for that 1485 00:52:10,127 --> 00:52:11,196 well. Thank you for that question. What I would tell you 1486 00:52:11,196 --> 00:52:12,863 question. What I would tell you is and I’ll let doctor Dobbs 1487 00:52:12,863 --> 00:52:14,699 is and I’ll let doctor Dobbs address it as well. I’ve been 1488 00:52:14,699 --> 00:52:16,367 address it as well. I’ve been in the Neshoba County Fair 1489 00:52:16,367 --> 00:52:19,270 in the Neshoba County Fair every year since 2003. I’ve 1490 00:52:19,270 --> 00:52:20,971 every year since 2003. I’ve spoken on Founders Square every 1491 00:52:20,971 --> 00:52:24,307 spoken on Founders Square every year since 2003 and I enjoy the 1492 00:52:24,307 --> 00:52:25,943 year since 2003 and I enjoy the opportunity to get out and meet 1493 00:52:25,943 --> 00:52:28,680 opportunity to get out and meet all of my friends and 1494 00:52:28,680 --> 00:52:29,480 all of my friends and constituents there in the Sba 1495 00:52:29,480 --> 00:52:31,115 constituents there in the Sba County and beyond. we are 1496 00:52:31,115 --> 00:52:35,253 County and beyond. we are certainly. Looking at that the 1497 00:52:35,253 --> 00:52:36,787 certainly. Looking at that the the fair is typically the last 1498 00:52:36,787 --> 00:52:39,257 the fair is typically the last week in July. we are currently 1499 00:52:39,257 --> 00:52:39,923 week in July. we are currently towards the last week of May, 1500 00:52:39,923 --> 00:52:41,426 towards the last week of May, So we’ve got about two months. 1501 00:52:41,426 --> 00:52:43,228 So we’ve got about two months. I know they’ve got to make a 1502 00:52:43,228 --> 00:52:44,895 I know they’ve got to make a decision before then but 1503 00:52:44,895 --> 00:52:46,764 decision before then but clearly most of the things that 1504 00:52:46,764 --> 00:52:49,132 clearly most of the things that we are able to reopen we have 1505 00:52:49,132 --> 00:52:51,236 we are able to reopen we have been able to do so by issuing 1506 00:52:51,236 --> 00:52:53,170 been able to do so by issuing guidelines that we encourage 1507 00:52:53,170 --> 00:52:55,840 guidelines that we encourage people to adhere to and 1508 00:52:55,840 --> 00:52:57,442 people to adhere to and certainly when it comes to 1509 00:52:57,442 --> 00:52:58,909 certainly when it comes to large events with a lot of 1510 00:52:58,909 --> 00:52:59,444 large events with a lot of people that we’re gonna 1511 00:52:59,444 --> 00:53:00,377 people that we’re gonna continue to try to work with 1512 00:53:00,377 --> 00:53:03,848 continue to try to work with those in. Vhs over there so 1513 00:53:03,848 --> 00:53:05,283 those in. Vhs over there so that I don’t know you know, 1514 00:53:05,283 --> 00:53:06,851 that I don’t know you know, Thank you governor you know 1515 00:53:06,851 --> 00:53:09,254 Thank you governor you know it’s it’s an evolving situation 1516 00:53:09,254 --> 00:53:12,156 it’s it’s an evolving situation and certainly we’ve received 1517 00:53:12,156 --> 00:53:13,357 and certainly we’ve received you know request for guidance 1518 00:53:13,357 --> 00:53:14,992 you know request for guidance from multiple areas and and and 1519 00:53:14,992 --> 00:53:16,894 from multiple areas and and and can use the foundation of the 1520 00:53:16,894 --> 00:53:17,462 can use the foundation of the executive order going forward 1521 00:53:17,462 --> 00:53:18,562 executive order going forward and certainly we always wanna 1522 00:53:18,562 --> 00:53:20,731 and certainly we always wanna make sure it’s consistent with 1523 00:53:20,731 --> 00:53:23,000 make sure it’s consistent with the with the the the current 1524 00:53:23,000 --> 00:53:25,202 the with the the the current guidance under under under 1525 00:53:25,202 --> 00:53:26,737 guidance under under under executive and public health 1526 00:53:26,737 --> 00:53:28,939 executive and public health orders that are out there. 1527 00:53:28,939 --> 00:53:30,407 orders that are out there. there are some safe ways to do 1528 00:53:30,407 --> 00:53:31,342 there are some safe ways to do things and where we can find a 1529 00:53:31,342 --> 00:53:32,810 things and where we can find a safe way to do things. we’ll 1530 00:53:32,810 --> 00:53:33,878 safe way to do things. we’ll we’ll try to do that. there 1531 00:53:33,878 --> 00:53:37,348 we’ll try to do that. there have been some. kinda early on 1532 00:53:37,348 --> 00:53:39,750 have been some. kinda early on like the Saint Patrick’s Day 1533 00:53:39,750 --> 00:53:42,353 like the Saint Patrick’s Day parade, we we work with those 1534 00:53:42,353 --> 00:53:43,153 parade, we we work with those guys and and recommended 1535 00:53:43,153 --> 00:53:44,255 guys and and recommended against opening and you know 1536 00:53:44,255 --> 00:53:45,890 against opening and you know they they thought it was a good 1537 00:53:45,890 --> 00:53:47,024 they they thought it was a good idea, too. There’s been some 1538 00:53:47,024 --> 00:53:48,359 idea, too. There’s been some other events that didn’t comply 1539 00:53:48,359 --> 00:53:49,360 other events that didn’t comply that seem like that they would 1540 00:53:49,360 --> 00:53:52,229 that seem like that they would be very risky but every 1541 00:53:52,229 --> 00:53:53,631 be very risky but every opportunity we have if we can 1542 00:53:53,631 --> 00:53:55,900 opportunity we have if we can find a safer option, we will 1543 00:53:55,900 --> 00:53:57,201 find a safer option, we will explore it, but when there are 1544 00:53:57,201 --> 00:53:58,769 explore it, but when there are not safe options will 1545 00:53:58,769 --> 00:54:00,638 not safe options will acknowledge that Thank you. 1546 00:54:00,638 --> 00:54:03,775 acknowledge that Thank you. Renee. 1547 00:54:07,312 --> 00:54:09,246 Thank you. Renee Thank you 1548 00:54:09,246 --> 00:54:11,882 Thank you. Renee Thank you governors. this question is for 1549 00:54:11,882 --> 00:54:15,252 governors. this question is for Judge Kendall that would be our 1550 00:54:15,252 --> 00:54:17,254 Judge Kendall that would be our your honor since you have had 1551 00:54:17,254 --> 00:54:20,091 your honor since you have had the experience of of being a 1552 00:54:20,091 --> 00:54:23,694 the experience of of being a legislative tobu brands and 1553 00:54:23,694 --> 00:54:26,531 legislative tobu brands and what about those two levels of 1554 00:54:26,531 --> 00:54:29,033 what about those two levels of state government. It’s gonna 1555 00:54:29,033 --> 00:54:31,502 state government. It’s gonna prepare for all the 1556 00:54:31,502 --> 00:54:32,337 prepare for all the difficulties that are 1557 00:54:32,337 --> 00:54:35,673 difficulties that are surrounded the for. What you 1558 00:54:35,673 --> 00:54:38,708 surrounded the for. What you yet? 1559 00:54:39,210 --> 00:54:40,710 Well, you know, first of all 1560 00:54:40,710 --> 00:54:43,280 Well, you know, first of all being in the Legislature and I 1561 00:54:43,280 --> 00:54:44,348 being in the Legislature and I think one of the reasons at 1562 00:54:44,348 --> 00:54:46,383 think one of the reasons at least in my mind, I felt like a 1563 00:54:46,383 --> 00:54:48,352 least in my mind, I felt like a successful legislator was my 1564 00:54:48,352 --> 00:54:49,753 successful legislator was my ability to deal with folks from 1565 00:54:49,753 --> 00:54:52,356 ability to deal with folks from all over the state and try to 1566 00:54:52,356 --> 00:54:54,091 all over the state and try to bring folks together and you 1567 00:54:54,091 --> 00:54:56,261 bring folks together and you know I think one of the the 1568 00:54:56,261 --> 00:54:57,094 know I think one of the the benefits in particular being in 1569 00:54:57,094 --> 00:54:58,462 benefits in particular being in the Jett, a Committee and the 1570 00:54:58,462 --> 00:55:00,497 the Jett, a Committee and the controversial bills that we 1571 00:55:00,497 --> 00:55:02,499 controversial bills that we would handle was trying to find 1572 00:55:02,499 --> 00:55:04,669 would handle was trying to find resolutions that worked for 1573 00:55:04,669 --> 00:55:05,703 resolutions that worked for everybody and then also working 1574 00:55:05,703 --> 00:55:07,171 everybody and then also working with members of the House and 1575 00:55:07,171 --> 00:55:10,341 with members of the House and so. The great thing about the 1576 00:55:10,341 --> 00:55:11,275 so. The great thing about the Mississippi Legislature and 1577 00:55:11,275 --> 00:55:12,142 Mississippi Legislature and really any legislatures, the 1578 00:55:12,142 --> 00:55:14,178 really any legislatures, the diverse backgrounds that come 1579 00:55:14,178 --> 00:55:16,113 diverse backgrounds that come together and as my good friend, 1580 00:55:16,113 --> 00:55:18,382 together and as my good friend, John Poe, Senator Polk would 1581 00:55:18,382 --> 00:55:19,584 John Poe, Senator Polk would say you know it’s making 1582 00:55:19,584 --> 00:55:20,351 say you know it’s making legislations like making 1583 00:55:20,351 --> 00:55:21,318 legislations like making sausage you bring it all 1584 00:55:21,318 --> 00:55:23,220 sausage you bring it all together and put it out there 1585 00:55:23,220 --> 00:55:24,688 together and put it out there and you end up with a good 1586 00:55:24,688 --> 00:55:27,324 and you end up with a good product and so I think when 1587 00:55:27,324 --> 00:55:28,758 product and so I think when dealing with the Department of 1588 00:55:28,758 --> 00:55:30,127 dealing with the Department of Public Safety, obviously you 1589 00:55:30,127 --> 00:55:31,629 Public Safety, obviously you have different divisions and 1590 00:55:31,629 --> 00:55:33,330 have different divisions and it’s working for the common 1591 00:55:33,330 --> 00:55:34,931 it’s working for the common good of the Department and 1592 00:55:34,931 --> 00:55:35,466 good of the Department and bringing those divisions 1593 00:55:35,466 --> 00:55:38,703 bringing those divisions together to realize that All of 1594 00:55:38,703 --> 00:55:40,805 together to realize that All of us working together creates a 1595 00:55:40,805 --> 00:55:42,373 us working together creates a better hole and and that’s 1596 00:55:42,373 --> 00:55:43,307 better hole and and that’s that’s that’s been a great 1597 00:55:43,307 --> 00:55:44,242 that’s that’s been a great experience for me coming from 1598 00:55:44,242 --> 00:55:46,443 experience for me coming from the legislative side from the 1599 00:55:46,443 --> 00:55:49,013 the legislative side from the judicial side I would say that 1600 00:55:49,013 --> 00:55:50,180 judicial side I would say that that sitting as a judge on the 1601 00:55:50,180 --> 00:55:51,716 that sitting as a judge on the court of Appeals, you have an 1602 00:55:51,716 --> 00:55:53,250 court of Appeals, you have an opportunity to read cases 1603 00:55:53,250 --> 00:55:54,651 opportunity to read cases throughout the entire state and 1604 00:55:54,651 --> 00:55:56,687 throughout the entire state and you can see that. sometimes 1605 00:55:56,687 --> 00:55:58,255 you can see that. sometimes things are handled differently 1606 00:55:58,255 --> 00:55:59,156 things are handled differently perhaps on the Coast and they 1607 00:55:59,156 --> 00:56:02,493 perhaps on the Coast and they are in the Delta and good and 1608 00:56:02,493 --> 00:56:05,195 are in the Delta and good and bad on both sides and so you 1609 00:56:05,195 --> 00:56:06,697 bad on both sides and so you know trying to bring the good 1610 00:56:06,697 --> 00:56:08,565 know trying to bring the good and bad and get rid of the bad 1611 00:56:08,565 --> 00:56:11,736 and bad and get rid of the bad and let’s accentuate the good. 1612 00:56:11,736 --> 00:56:13,871 and let’s accentuate the good. And and find a better product 1613 00:56:13,871 --> 00:56:15,306 And and find a better product throughout the whole Department 1614 00:56:15,306 --> 00:56:17,074 throughout the whole Department and that’s been a real benefit 1615 00:56:17,074 --> 00:56:18,174 and that’s been a real benefit of being on the court is is 1616 00:56:18,174 --> 00:56:19,744 of being on the court is is really analyzing how things are 1617 00:56:19,744 --> 00:56:21,712 really analyzing how things are done differently across our 1618 00:56:21,712 --> 00:56:22,479 done differently across our state and trying to find the 1619 00:56:22,479 --> 00:56:23,948 state and trying to find the best ways to get them done and 1620 00:56:23,948 --> 00:56:25,783 best ways to get them done and move forward. you know it’s 1621 00:56:25,783 --> 00:56:27,351 move forward. you know it’s called the criminal Justice 1622 00:56:27,351 --> 00:56:29,754 called the criminal Justice system and it’s made up of the 1623 00:56:29,754 --> 00:56:30,587 system and it’s made up of the judicial branch. It’s made up 1624 00:56:30,587 --> 00:56:33,157 judicial branch. It’s made up of the executive branch and and 1625 00:56:33,157 --> 00:56:34,258 of the executive branch and and law enforcement plays a key 1626 00:56:34,258 --> 00:56:36,027 law enforcement plays a key role as new judges as the 1627 00:56:36,027 --> 00:56:37,662 role as new judges as the legislators as does the 1628 00:56:37,662 --> 00:56:38,462 legislators as does the governor and then as this 1629 00:56:38,462 --> 00:56:41,232 governor and then as this Department of corrections. So 1630 00:56:41,232 --> 00:56:43,200 Department of corrections. So it’s my ability to work with 1631 00:56:43,200 --> 00:56:43,935 it’s my ability to work with all those different agencies 1632 00:56:43,935 --> 00:56:45,335 all those different agencies and different groups. that I 1633 00:56:45,335 --> 00:56:48,739 and different groups. that I think it’s gonna be a great 1634 00:56:48,739 --> 00:56:50,241 think it’s gonna be a great benefit to the agency and I 1635 00:56:50,241 --> 00:56:51,776 benefit to the agency and I would I would remind that the 1636 00:56:51,776 --> 00:56:53,544 would I would remind that the troopers and all the employees 1637 00:56:53,544 --> 00:56:55,379 troopers and all the employees there that I that I’m there to 1638 00:56:55,379 --> 00:56:56,714 there that I that I’m there to work for you and we’re gonna 1639 00:56:56,714 --> 00:56:58,148 work for you and we’re gonna work together and we’re gonna 1640 00:56:58,148 --> 00:56:59,550 work together and we’re gonna we’re gonna do great things and 1641 00:56:59,550 --> 00:57:01,418 we’re gonna do great things and I’m I’m excited about being 1642 00:57:01,418 --> 00:57:04,988 I’m I’m excited about being there Bobbys to say when the 1643 00:57:04,988 --> 00:57:06,356 there Bobbys to say when the Ches might start going out to 1644 00:57:06,356 --> 00:57:07,792 Ches might start going out to this small businesses that 1645 00:57:07,792 --> 00:57:09,359 this small businesses that qualify for them and when the 1646 00:57:09,359 --> 00:57:10,094 qualify for them and when the application process can begin 1647 00:57:10,094 --> 00:57:13,363 application process can begin for the year. The only answer I 1648 00:57:13,363 --> 00:57:14,732 for the year. The only answer I can give you today is as soon 1649 00:57:14,732 --> 00:57:21,205 can give you today is as soon as possible. who with the LX. 1650 00:57:24,274 --> 00:57:26,243 Oh, yeah. Thank you Governor 1651 00:57:26,243 --> 00:57:29,747 Oh, yeah. Thank you Governor we’ve got more yesterday that 1652 00:57:29,747 --> 00:57:32,483 we’ve got more yesterday that was meeting with you today on a 1653 00:57:32,483 --> 00:57:34,118 was meeting with you today on a museum openings and we’re just 1654 00:57:34,118 --> 00:57:35,553 museum openings and we’re just confirming that meeting 1655 00:57:35,553 --> 00:57:37,722 confirming that meeting happened and potential got you 1656 00:57:37,722 --> 00:57:40,357 happened and potential got you might have given for museums 1657 00:57:40,357 --> 00:57:43,460 might have given for museums well as you know mayor foe is a 1658 00:57:43,460 --> 00:57:45,797 well as you know mayor foe is a great friend of mine. it’s a 1659 00:57:45,797 --> 00:57:47,231 great friend of mine. it’s a Super mayor for the city of 1660 00:57:47,231 --> 00:57:48,665 Super mayor for the city of Biloxi. I’m not gonna discuss 1661 00:57:48,665 --> 00:57:49,801 Biloxi. I’m not gonna discuss any personal meetings that 1662 00:57:49,801 --> 00:57:51,334 any personal meetings that we’ve had, but what I will tell 1663 00:57:51,334 --> 00:57:52,936 we’ve had, but what I will tell you is that we are working with 1664 00:57:52,936 --> 00:57:54,005 you is that we are working with the State Department of Health 1665 00:57:54,005 --> 00:57:54,671 the State Department of Health with our local elected 1666 00:57:54,671 --> 00:57:56,774 with our local elected officials to get our museum. 1667 00:57:56,774 --> 00:57:59,710 officials to get our museum. Back open in a safe responsible 1668 00:57:59,710 --> 00:58:03,314 Back open in a safe responsible way, we know that tourism is a 1669 00:58:03,314 --> 00:58:05,316 way, we know that tourism is a critically important piece of 1670 00:58:05,316 --> 00:58:08,019 critically important piece of Mississippi’s economy and I met 1671 00:58:08,019 --> 00:58:10,187 Mississippi’s economy and I met with all of the I had a I guess 1672 00:58:10,187 --> 00:58:12,023 with all of the I had a I guess a zoom call with all the 1673 00:58:12,023 --> 00:58:13,490 a zoom call with all the tourism directors from around 1674 00:58:13,490 --> 00:58:14,424 tourism directors from around the state within the last week 1675 00:58:14,424 --> 00:58:17,261 the state within the last week or so they do great work and 1676 00:58:17,261 --> 00:58:19,230 or so they do great work and we’ve got to get our tourism 1677 00:58:19,230 --> 00:58:20,998 we’ve got to get our tourism space back open. It is it is 1678 00:58:20,998 --> 00:58:23,266 space back open. It is it is something that I think will 1679 00:58:23,266 --> 00:58:24,801 something that I think will significantly help our total 1680 00:58:24,801 --> 00:58:28,572 significantly help our total economy as we know 1681 00:58:28,739 --> 00:58:30,707 250000 Mississippians have 1682 00:58:30,707 --> 00:58:31,675 250000 Mississippians have filed for unemployment 1683 00:58:31,675 --> 00:58:33,710 filed for unemployment insurance in the last eight 1684 00:58:33,710 --> 00:58:35,245 insurance in the last eight weeks. We have approximately 1685 00:58:35,245 --> 00:58:37,114 weeks. We have approximately 200000 that are still filing 1686 00:58:37,114 --> 00:58:38,314 200000 that are still filing cuz they have to refill on a 1687 00:58:38,314 --> 00:58:40,150 cuz they have to refill on a weekly basis. I believe as we 1688 00:58:40,150 --> 00:58:42,053 weekly basis. I believe as we get the gaming industry, the 1689 00:58:42,053 --> 00:58:44,988 get the gaming industry, the tourism industry back operating 1690 00:58:44,988 --> 00:58:46,590 tourism industry back operating and functional that we can 1691 00:58:46,590 --> 00:58:47,524 and functional that we can reduce that number 1692 00:58:47,524 --> 00:58:48,759 reduce that number significantly we can get our 1693 00:58:48,759 --> 00:58:50,460 significantly we can get our economy rolling again and that 1694 00:58:50,460 --> 00:58:52,729 economy rolling again and that is something that we as 1695 00:58:52,729 --> 00:58:53,998 is something that we as Mississippians sorely need as 1696 00:58:53,998 --> 00:58:57,334 Mississippians sorely need as we move into the summer months. 1697 00:58:57,334 --> 00:58:59,070 we move into the summer months. I wanna thank everyone for 1698 00:58:59,070 --> 00:59:00,604 I wanna thank everyone for being here today. I do have a 1699 00:59:00,604 --> 00:59:01,806 being here today. I do have a 330 minute that I’ve got to get 1700 00:59:01,806 --> 00:59:03,907 330 minute that I’ve got to get to we will be back here 1701 00:59:03,907 --> 00:59:05,241 to we will be back here tomorrow at 230. I can’t tell 1702 00:59:05,241 --> 00:59:06,811 tomorrow at 230. I can’t tell the people of Mississippi. how 1703 00:59:06,811 --> 00:59:08,745 the people of Mississippi. how proud I am of everyone that’s 1704 00:59:08,745 --> 00:59:09,980 proud I am of everyone that’s sitting at this table and 1705 00:59:09,980 --> 00:59:11,949 sitting at this table and particularly our new to two new 1706 00:59:11,949 --> 00:59:13,750 particularly our new to two new team members Commissioner 1707 00:59:13,750 --> 00:59:15,786 team members Commissioner Tyndall and Commissioner Barr 1708 00:59:15,786 --> 00:59:17,388 Tyndall and Commissioner Barr Cain. I know that they’re gonna 1709 00:59:17,388 --> 00:59:18,721 Cain. I know that they’re gonna do tremendous work and they’re 1710 00:59:18,721 --> 00:59:20,324 do tremendous work and they’re gonna make Mississippi proud 1711 00:59:20,324 --> 00:59:22,193 gonna make Mississippi proud again. Thank you all for being 1712 00:59:22,193 --> 00:59:26,163 again. Thank you all for being here. God bless and stay safe.