Chelsey Jones
Staff Writer
Two of Jackson State University’s very own are running for Ward 5 and Ward 6 Jackson City Council seats.
LaCurtis Powell, a sophomore criminal justice major, made the decision to run for the vacant Ward 6 city council position after the former seat holder, Tyrone Hendrix, decided not to campaign for reelection.
“I’m running for this position because I have what it takes to bring my community up and make sure their voices are heard each and every day,” said Powell. “I also want to improve the infrastructure and the education system in Jackson.”
Chris Oliphant, a junior entrepreneurship major, decided to run for Ward 5 councilman after seeing a need for change.
“Over the years, I have seen Jackson starting to look rotten, as if we’re dry of love for the city,” Oliphant said. “I will not allow my city to perish any longer.”
Powell is in competition with Aaron Banks, Jonathan Cottrell, Shabaka Harrison, Ernest Slaughter and others for the position. Out of all the candidates, Powell is the youngest. He believes his age puts him at an advantage over his competitors.
“I feel that I will appeal to the younger people because they see a young African-American who is trying to advocate for his community,” Powell said. “I can relate to young adults and will make sure education is their first priority and that there are programs and community centers places throughout the community.”
Oliphant, who is the youngest candidate for the Ward 5 councilman position, does not believe his age affects his campaign.
“A will to change the view of the city holds no age,” said Oliphant.
Powell believes that it is important that any college student wanting to run for a government position while still in college should stay true to themselves and never forget who you they are as a person.
“Don’t let anyone say you can’t do it because of your age,” said Powell.
Oliphant advised any college student wanting to run for office to not allow naysayers to determine what they do.
“Believe that you can make the change and illustrate the change,” said Oliphant said.
