A look ahead to the upcoming Gulfport municipal elections

With current Mayor Billy Hewes planning on stepping down after his third term, candidates have begun announcing their intentions to run for the office of Mayor of Gulfport in 2025.

On Monday Sonya Williams-Barnes, a former member of the Mississippi House of Representatives, confirmed with WXXV that she intends to run for the seat of Gulfport Mayor. Along with her, Gulfport attorney Hugh Keating also confirming that he still intends to run in the 2025 election.

Time is still left for other candidates to throw their hats in the ring but the filing period for municipal races is quickly approaching, beginning in January of next year. Party primaries will kick off at the beginning of April, with general elections set for June 3rd.

Some Gulfport residents spoke on what remains important to them as we draw closer to the race for the seat of Gulfport Mayor.

“They need to interact with the people because the people are the ones that put you in office. Get out, show your face, and show concern. That’s the main thing. Show concern, have compassion, have empathy with your people,” said Kenya Williams, a Gulfport resident.