Tate Reeves

Tate Reeves is an American politician serving as the 65th Governor of Mississippi since January 2020. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as the 32nd Lieutenant Governor of Mississippi and the 53rd State Treasurer. His tenure has been marked by significant tax cuts, infrastructure initiatives, and navigating challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Jackson water crisis.

Early life and education

Tate Reeves was born in Florence, Mississippi, and grew up in Simpson County. He attended Simpson County Academy before enrolling at Millsaps College in Jackson, where he graduated with a degree in economics. During his time at Millsaps, he was active in the Phi Theta Kappa honor society and served as president of the Kappa Alpha Order fraternity. His early professional career was in investment banking at firms in Jackson and Birmingham, Alabama.

Political career

Reeves' political career began with his election as State Treasurer in 2003, succeeding Peggy Buck. He was re-elected in 2007, serving under Governor Haley Barbour. In 2011, he was elected Lieutenant Governor of Mississippi, a position he held for two terms under Governor Phil Bryant. As lieutenant governor, he presided over the Mississippi Senate and was instrumental in crafting the state's budget and legislative agenda, often focusing on fiscal conservatism. He successfully ran for governor in 2019, defeating Jim Hood, the Democratic Attorney General.

Governorship

Reeves was inaugurated as governor in January 2020. His administration quickly faced the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he issued a state of emergency and implemented policies balancing public health with economic activity, often aligning with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A major legislative achievement was the signing of the largest income tax cut in state history, effectively eliminating the tax for many residents. His tenure has also been defined by the ongoing water infrastructure crisis in Jackson, leading to federal intervention from the Environmental Protection Agency. He has championed projects like the RESTORE Act-funded expansion of the Port of Gulfport and increased funding for the Mississippi Department of Transportation.

Political positions

Reeves is a staunch conservative, advocating for limited government and free-market principles. He is strongly anti-abortion, signing one of the nation's most restrictive abortion bans following the Dobbs decision by the Supreme Court of the United States. He is a supporter of Second Amendment rights and signed constitutional carry legislation into law. On education, he supports school choice initiatives, including expanding charter schools and the Mississippi Adequate Education Program. He has been a vocal critic of policies from the Biden Administration, particularly regarding energy policy and vaccine mandates.

Personal life

Reeves is married to Eleanor Coleman Reeves, and they have three daughters. The family resides in the Governor's Mansion in Jackson and are members of First Presbyterian Church in Jackson. An avid sports fan, he frequently attends games supporting the Mississippi State Bulldogs and Ole Miss Rebels. He has been involved with organizations like the Boy Scouts of America and the United Way of the Capital Area. Category:Governors of Mississippi Category:Mississippi Republicans Category:Lieutenant Governors of Mississippi