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What’s one special memory that stands
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out during your time campaigning?
Michael - The memory that stands out the most to me is
standing on the stage with my family at Mudbugs on election
night. Looking out at the people in attendance, I saw a room
filled with friends and family who had spent the last ten
months working alongside us. We have been blessed to
have the support of our community, and it was a humbling
experience to have those that worked so hard for us to be
able to share in our celebration.
Haley – There are so many memories that I will cherish, but
one thing that stands out the most is meeting all the people
who care about their communities and families. Everywhere
we went, we were always welcomed by people who truly care
for an issue facing their town or community. We have some of
the most wonderful people in the world living in our state and
the opportunity to meet them and spend time with them was
a very special opportunity.
What was the most difficult part of
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campaigning?
Michael - The most difficult part of the campaign was the
time I had to spend away from home as we traveled across the
congressional district. I am extremely grateful to my family for
their dedication, hard work, and sacrifice.
Haley - That’s a hard question to answer. When we were
tired, Michael and I tried to remind ourselves that this was a
part of God’s plan. That made it all worth it. Our desire was to
be faithful to His will each and every day.
Who has been your role model and why?
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Michael - I have had many outstanding role models throughout
my life. When I was a child, my parents always set an
example of how to live a life that would bring honor to our
Heavenly Father. I believe this has had a profound impact on
the way I’ve lived my life, raised two boys with my wife, and
served the people of Madison and Rankin Counties as their
district attorney. During our campaign, I always tried to model
our campaign after our current congressman – Gregg Harper.
Gregg has served our state and nation well during his ten years
in office, and he has always been a man of honor and integrity.
What are your plans for how you’ll
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divide family time between Brandon
and Washington?
Michael - I intend to travel back and forth to Washington,
but my family will remain in Brandon. Brandon has always
been and always will be our home, and I cannot imagine our
children growing up anywhere else. Washington is where
I’ll go to work and Brandon is where I’ll keep my home.
What do you think the biggest adjustment
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to this political arena will be?
Michael - I believe that my experience as district attorney,
serving the people of Mississippi, has prepared me to
represent our state in Congress. I know that challenges lie
ahead as I move into a new position, but I am confident that
if I surround myself with an experienced staff then I will
quickly be able to transition into my role as an effective
congressman on behalf of the people of Mississippi.
Was there a particular Bible verse that
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you claimed or were motivated by during
your campaign?
Michael - Throughout the campaign I have often reflected
on Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you declares
the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to
give you hope and a future.” This verse would remind me that
God was in control and that His will for my life would prevail.
Haley - The Bible verse that always brought me encouragement
was Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God
works for the good of those who love Him, who have been
called according to His purpose.”
88 • December 2018