Mississippi Votes Action Fund Municipal Candidate Questionnaire

First Name *

Mississippi Votes Action Fund (MSVAF) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to expanding access to the ballot box, fostering civic engagement, and empowering communities across Mississippi. As part of our mission, we are conducting this questionnaire to understand your positions, values, and vision for your community. Your responses will inform our decision regarding endorsements in the upcoming municipal elections.

Please complete this questionnaire and return it by March 18, 2025, to info@msvotesaf.org. Responses may be shared publicly to help educate voters.

Full Name*

Email*

example@example.com

Phone Number*

Please enter a valid phone number.

City*

Party Affiliation*

Office Sought*

Campaign Website *

Social Media Handles *

1. What inspired you to run for and what unique qualifications do you bring to this position?*

2. What are your top three priorities for your municipality/ward/district if elected?*

3. How do you plan to engage constituents in decision-making processes and ensure transparency in your administration? Or how do you plan to engage constituents in decision-making processes and ensure transparency in your role as an alderman or city council member?*

4. "Collaborative Governance" is breaking down barriers between government and community, centering individuals who historically have been excluded or marginalized. It requires elected bodies working in authentic partnership with communities and groups to develop a shared strategy and vision, advancing policies, and building longterm sustainable change. What is your commitment to this philosophy of government? How will you involve community members and grassroots organizations in the governing process? Who do you consider yourself most accountable to?*

Section 2: Voting Access and Civic Engagement

5. What measures will you take to increase voter registration and turnout in your community?*

6. How will you ensure that all eligible voters have equitable access to polling places and voting resources including early voting and vote-by-mail options?*

7. Do you support efforts to restore the ballot initiative process in Mississippi? Why or why not?*

Section 3: Social Justice and Equity

8. What policies would you implement to address systemic inequities in housing, education, and employment within your municipality?*

9. How will your administration prioritize the needs of young people particularly in terms of education, job opportunities, and community engagement?*

10. What steps will you take to protect and support marginalized communities including LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those living in poverty?*

Section 4: Economic Development

11. How will you support small businesses, especially those owned by women and people of color, in your municipality?*

12. What is your vision for economic development that ensures sustainable growth and livable wages for all residents?*

13. How do you plan to collaborate with other levels of government and local organizations to secure funding and resources for economic development?*

Section 5: Public Safety and Community Health

14. What is your approach to ensuring public safety while fostering trust between law enforcement and the community?*

15. How will you address issues of mental health, addiction, and homelessness in your municipality?*

16. Do you support reallocating resources to community-based safety initiatives? Why or why not?*

Section 6: Environmental Sustainability

17. What steps will you take to address environmental issues and promote sustainability in your municipality?*

18. How will you ensure that communities disproportionately impacted by environmental hazards have a voice in decision-making processes?*

Section 7: Commitment to Collaboration and Accountability

19. How will you work with grassroots organizations like Mississippi Votes Action Fund, to advance civic engagement and social justice?*

20. What role do you see for young leaders in shaping the future of your municipality?*

21. How will you measure the success of your administration and remain accountable to your constituents?*

Full Name*

Signature*

Date*

Date

Thank you for your commitment to serving your community. We look forward to reviewing your responses.

Disclaimer:

Your contact information will remain confidential and will not be shared. However, the resposnses recorded in this form may be shared for informational or promotional purposes.