Johnny DuPree, a respected political figure and proud Jackson State University alumnus, has made a remarkable return to Mississippi politics, securing a seat in the Mississippi State Senate. Known for his trailblazing career and decades of public service, DuPree’s comeback underscores his enduring influence and commitment to creating lasting change in his home state.

DuPree made history in 2011 as the first African American major-party nominee for governor in Mississippi since Reconstruction, representing a monumental moment in Southern politics. Before that, he served as mayor of Hattiesburg from 2001 to 2017, where he became the city’s longest-serving mayor and a symbol of pragmatic leadership and community advancement.

Throughout his career, DuPree has focused on education reform, economic growth, affordable housing, and equitable opportunity for all Mississippians. His policies have consistently prioritized the working class and underserved communities, reflecting his lifelong dedication to fairness and progress.

Returning to the State Senate marks a new chapter for DuPree, one that builds on his legacy of breaking barriers and empowering others. His victory also highlights the continued power of HBCU graduates in shaping public leadership across America, with DuPree often crediting his time at Jackson State for grounding his values in service, discipline, and faith.

As Mississippi faces evolving challenges, Johnny DuPree’s return brings both experience and vision, qualities that promise to guide the state toward a more inclusive and forward-thinking future.