In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, co-hosts David Olds and Jim Newman break down the latest developments from the Mississippi Legislature following the January 31, 2026 session. The conversation covers major policy debates, legislative priorities, and behind-the-scenes dynamics shaping the 2026 lawmaking season.

Topics include infrastructure and public services, education policy, economic and workforce issues, and the political context influencing decision-making at the Capitol. Drawing on experience and regional insight, the hosts explain what these legislative actions mean for Mississippi residents and what to watch as the session moves forward.

This episode provides clear analysis, practical context, and informed commentary for anyone looking to understand Mississippi politics beyond the headlines.

00:00 – Introduction & Winter Weather Check
Hosts David Olds and Jim Newman open the show and discuss recent weather impacts across Mississippi.

04:30 – Overview of the Legislative Session
Setting the stage for the January 31, 2026 legislative review and key themes emerging at the Capitol.

11:15 – Major Bills & Policy Priorities
Discussion of prominent legislation under consideration and the political motivations behind them.

22:40 – Infrastructure, Utilities & Local Impacts
How legislative decisions affect counties, rural areas, and statewide services.

32:10 – Education & Workforce Issues
Debate over education policy, workforce development, and long-term economic implications.

43:25 – Political Dynamics & Party Strategy
Insight into alliances, disagreements, and the broader political landscape in Mississippi.

In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman sit down with State Representative Becky Currie, Chairwoman of the Mississippi House Corrections Committee, to discuss the urgent challenges facing healthcare in Mississippi’s prison system. From overcrowding and medical access to funding and accountability, Representative Currie offers a candid look at the realities inside state correctional facilities and the reforms needed to ensure both safety and dignity for all Mississippians.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Mississippi Prisons
01:50 Becky Curry's Journey into Corrections
08:08 Healthcare Challenges in Mississippi Prisons
16:23 The Role of VitalCore in Prison Healthcare
24:10 Mental Health Facilities and Their Impact
26:30 Addressing Rape Kit Issues in Mississippi
30:13 Controversies in Law Enforcement and Corrections
33:19 Expanding Medicaid in Mississippi
34:34 The Importance of Rural Hospitals
37:38 Medicaid Expansion and Federal Funding
40:30 School Choice and Education Reform

In this episode of Mississippi Happenings, hosts David Olds and Jim Newman engage with Kathleen O'Beirne to discuss the implications of federal policies, particularly HR1, on Mississippi families. They explore the effects of tax policy changes, healthcare challenges, education funding cuts, and food insecurity, emphasizing the need for grassroots activism and community engagement to address these pressing issues.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Family Ties
03:10 Understanding HR1: Trump's Big Beautiful Bill
05:56 Tax Policy Changes and Their Impact on Mississippi Families
08:57 The Effects of Medicaid Cuts
12:08 Inequality and Economic Disparities
12:42 The Misrepresentation of Tax Benefits
14:21 Healthcare Access and Medicaid Expansion
17:25 The Broader Economic Impact of Cuts
20:25 Education Funding and Its Consequences
32:23 Impact of Disruption on Families
35:15 Food Insecurity and Its Consequences
37:30 Short-Sighted Policies and Their Effects
37:51 Disdain for Vulnerable Populations
37:57 Religion and Politics: A Complex Relationship
38:39 Government Shutdown: Potential Consequences
42:07 Economic Impact on Farmers
43:53 The Ripple Effect of Policy Changes
45:40 Awakening of the Mississippi Voter
46:53 Using Social Media for Advocacy
52:02 The Importance of Civic Engagement