Mar 3, 2025- A former Mississippi governor has thrown his name into a DeSoto County primary race for mayor, expected to be the most contested municipal vote this election cycle.
Former Gov. Haley Barbour confirmed to DeSoto County News Monday morning his support and endorsement of Horn Lake Ward 4 Alderman Dave Young in the city’s Republican primary race.
“Yes, I have endorsed him, as I think he is the best candidate and would make an excellent mayor for Horn Lake,” Barbour said in an email reply to a request for confirmation and comment.
Young is one of three Republican candidates for the seat currently held by the retiring Mayor Allen Latimer. Current Horn Lake Alderman-at-Large Danny Klein and former mayor Nat Baker are also running for the Republican nod and Young has invited Klein and Baker to debate and discuss issues at a City Hall event on March 22.
Planning Commissioner Jimmy Stokes II is the Democratic candidate running for mayor and is unopposed in the Democratic primary.
Barbour was Mississippi governor for two terms between 2004 and 2012. During his time as governor, Barbour was best known for his administration’s response to Hurricane Katrina and he emphasized job creation and economic incentives to attract industries to Mississippi.
Monday was the deadline for voter registration for the April 1 primary election. Absentee balloting is available at the City Clerk’s office during office hours through March 29 at 12 noon. Absentee balloting is also available on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m.-12 noon at City Hall.
The primary election winner must receive 50 percent plus one vote. If that doesn’t happen, a runoff election will be held April 22 between the top two candidates in votes from the primary election.
