On the last Tuesday of November, the constituents of the central Mississippi region, encompassing 22 counties such as Hinds County and Jackson, will decide the fate of a pivotal seat on the state Supreme Court. A contest that will undeniably impact the future political ecosystem of the region.
Justice Jim Kitchens, a resilient veteran justice, is contending for his third consecutive eight-year tenure on the apex court. On the opposing side stands State Sen. Jenifer B. Branning, embodying the dissatisfaction of the conservatives.
The state Supreme Court represents the final echelon of judicial authority for criminal, civil, and death penalty appeals, legal issues with massive public interest, and questions circling Mississippi’s laws and constitution. The court serves as a reviewer for decisions of lower courts such as Chancery and circuit courts.
The Supreme Court showcased its influence in 2023 by deciding on 260 cases, and delivering a verdict on an incredible amount of 2,656 motions and petitions. These figures highlight the court’s fundamental role in shaping the state’s legislative context.
Justice Kitchens, admitted to the Mississippi Bar way back in 1967, domiciles in Crystal Springs, Copiah County. His impressive resume cites the completion of two terms as Supreme Court Justice and an extensive 41-year law practice, notably his tenure as district attorney riversiding across four counties.
Having chaired on this seat since 2008, Kitchens commands unparalleled experience with a profound understanding of the legal machinery. His job profile includes multiple stints as a district attorney spanning four counties, introducing him to the practical implications of the law.
Kitchens finds space within the echelons of the court arbiters as a presiding justice, a title reserved for those with the most numbers of years on the bench, second only to the Chief justice. This responsibility encapsulates administrative tasks and presiding over panels during verbal debates.
Kitchens presents himself as an embodiment of his oath, carrying it around in his pocket, a testament to his dedication. An active advocate of neutrality, he firmly stands against distinguishing people before the court based on wealth, color, or political allegiances.
Unapologetic against perceived overreaches of the judicial power and biased prosecutorial decisions, Kitchens firmly projects his dissents. An archetype in his career remains the provision of court-appointed lawyers to financially disenfranchised defendants.
State Sen. Branning represents less experienced opposition from the Republican side. Admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 2004, Branning holds the experience of a state senator since 2016. She presently resides in Philadelphia, Neshoba County.
Despite lacking significant judicial exposure, Branning is eager to present a conservative face to the Supreme Court. Her primary experience stems from serving as a private practice attorney, tending to businesses in diverse areas such as real estate development, banking, and agriculture.
Branning parades herself as a ‘Christian conservative’. Seemingly, she feels no qualms about voicing her disdain for established laws, showcasing an obstinate resolve to overturn Roe v. Wade and support the state’s controversial abortion ban.
Furthering her explicit endorsement of conservative principles, Branning is a gun-rights enthusiast, maintaining membership of the National Rifle Association. Presumably, she would welcome stricter legislations with mandatory and increased minimum sentences for crimes, including minor ones like shoplifting and vehicle theft.
As chair of the Highways and Transportation Committee in the state Senate, Branning leaves a questionable legacy. Her aggressive stance focusing on lowering taxes and reducing regulations for farmers and small business owners echoes her conservative ideology.
Branning’s bid for the Supreme Court seat underlies her capitalist lineage, stemming from several generations of business owners in Neshoba County. While her credentials might appeal to some, the lack of substantial judicial experience raises serious doubts about her appropriateness for this high office.