Kevin Wilson, a longtime oilman and member of the Adams County Board of Supervisors, announced he’s running for Congress and seeking the seat held by Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson.
In a press release, Wilson said he’s officially qualified to run in Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District as a Republican. He is the state’s largest independent oil and natural gas producer. He is serving his second term as a supervisor, having spent the last two years as president of the county board.
“Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District deserves a representative who understands how federal decisions affect communities and working families,” Wilson stated. “I’ve spent my career creating jobs, producing energy here in Mississippi, and working at the local level to solve real problems. I’m running for Congress to bring a practical voice to Washington that puts people first.”
Wilson’s campaign will be focused on “practical leadership, economic opportunity, and accountability, grounded in experience from both public service and private industry,” according to the release.
“This campaign is about delivering results,” Wilson added. “It’s about strengthening the workforce, improving infrastructure, supporting domestic energy production, and making sure communities have a strong voice when national decisions are made.”
Wilson must win the Republican primary in March before potentially meeting Thompson in the November general election. Ron Eller, a cardiothoracic physician assistant in Jackson who was the GOP nominee in 2024 before losing to Thompson, is also planning a run.
Bennie Foster, the chief operating officer at New Vineyard Church in Jackson, has declared a run on the Democratic side.
Thompson is Mississippi’s longest-serving member of Congress, holding his seat since 1993, and while he hasn’t officially announced a reelection bid, it’s widely believed he will seek a 17th term. He’s served on various committees and was chair of the House Committee on Homeland Security from 2007-11 and again from 2019-23.
Mississippi’s 2nd Congressional District is made up of 28 counties concentrated along the Mississippi River and in the Delta region and holds portions of Madison and Hinds counties, including most of the city of Jackson.