By: CA Sttaff Writer | March 21, 2025
Clarksdale, Mississippi – On March 20, 2025, Clarksdale residents gathered for the “Meet the Candidates” forum, an event designed to introduce the community to the individuals vying for the mayoral seat. The event, held in a public setting and streamed live on Facebook, provided an opportunity for citizens to hear directly from the candidates about their platforms, priorities, and plans for the future of Clarksdale.
Candidates for Mayor The forum featured all nine candidates running in the upcoming mayoral election:
- Bill Gresham
- Gregory Hoskins
- Charles Jones
- Kinchen “Bubba” O’Keefe
- Orlando W. Paden
- Henry Smith Jr.
- Mark Webb
- Milton Gardner (Independent)
- Scotty A. Meredith (Independent)
These candidates represent a mix of political experience, business acumen, and community leadership, as well as people of the community who are stepping out to become emerging leaders, each bringing a unique vision for Clarksdale’s future.
Key Discussion Topics During the forum, candidates addressed several major concerns that Clarksdale residents have expressed leading up to the election. The forum allowed citizens to ask questions, ensuring the candidates had an opportunity to address specific community concerns:
- Economic Development: Strategies to attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create sustainable job opportunities.
- Infrastructure Improvement: Plans for road repairs, public facility upgrades, and water system enhancements.
- Public Safety: Efforts to improve community policing, reduce crime, and enhance the relationship between law enforcement and citizens.
- Education & Youth Programs: Support for local schools, after-school programs, and workforce development initiatives.
- Community Engagement: How the next mayor will foster transparency and maintain an open dialogue with residents.
Election & Absentee Voting Information The primary election for Clarksdale’s next mayor is set for April 1, 2025. For those unable to vote in person on Election Day, absentee voting is available.
The Clarksdale City Clerk’s Office has special Saturday hours for absentee voting:
- March 1, 2025 – 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- March 22, 2025 – 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- March 29, 2025 – 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Voters must be registered and bring a valid form of identification to cast their absentee ballot.
What’s Next? With the election just weeks away, Clarksdale voters are encouraged to review each candidate’s platform, watch the full forum replay on Facebook Live, and participate in upcoming election activities.
This race is crucial in shaping Clarksdale’s future, and every vote counts. Make sure your voice is heard on primary election day, April 1, 2025.
*To report a spelling or grammar error or inaccurate information, please email us at info@clarksdaleadvocate.news.
