Examples Of Corruption In Mississippi

Treading Water In a democratic government, corrupt workers are constantly looking for ways to take advantage of the system. Even representatives that the people trust greatly trust sometimes uncovered as thieves and scandals. In Mississippi, corruption has made itself a very prevalent problem. Research shows that “corruption is costing Mississippi taxpayers an average $1,308 per person per year” (Mitchell). The state has had its fair share of politically corrupt representatives since its foundation in 1817 such as Theodore Bilbo and Chris Epps; both of which manipulated the public for personal gain. Throughout the history of Mississippian government and leadership, political corruption has been malignant to not only statewide progress, but

Those who dwell at the top of society generally control the politics within the area of their influence. When analyzing the politics and complexities of Mississippi, especially in the Delta, those in lower classes can be met with refusal when “[attempting] to address the economic problems confronting them in the face of failure of the political system to speak to those issues, a political system dominated by planters” (Whayne 3). Since the rich people in the area have long-had control of politics in the area, the lower class has been unable to oppose elites in their society. Power struggles between the rich and poor classes have caused many to live in a broken system that does not allow economic progression for an individual. The desire to keep this political power has motivated government officials to manipulate the public and take advantage when they have the opportunity; especially in impoverished areas.

To make progress, one clear necessity is having the funds to do so. Finances are essential for making headway in nearly any department. When an elected official decides to graft or accept bribes, it is important to consider “the harm they have done by stealing the taxpayers’ money” (Gates). Not only are these workers thieving precious time from the communities they are meant to protect and serve, but they are also misusing the money of the same people that elected them. This is money that is needed for the betterment of Mississippian schools, recreation, public buildings, and society. The everyday citizens living in these areas should not have to spend time concerned over whether or not their officials are robbing them. Tax dollars should be used to support what they are meant to: the people. The delineation between parties has not seemed to make a difference either. The charges for corruption have been seen on both ends of the political spectrum. Author and Mississippian resident Richard Grant argues that, “choosing between Republicans and Democrats is like picking whichever prostitute treats you best.” Although aligning with a party may seem like the right idea, party affiliation does not account for an individual’s character or the choices that they will make after settling into their position. The party system has misled