HERNANDO, Miss. — With the beginning of the new year, we are starting tto see public announcements of candidates declaring for the upcoming elections in the 2026 election cycle. For instance, seasoned prosecutor Gordon Shaw Jr. officially qualified Tuesday to run for Circuit Court Judge of Mississippi’s 21st Judicial District, Place One.
Shaw, currently an Assistant District Attorney for DeSoto County, filed his paperwork in Jackson as the qualifying deadline for judicial candidates continues through Feb. 2.
Shaw is running on a “tough-on-crime” platform, emphasizing a need for constitutional conservative judges. “Who sits on the bench matters,” Shaw said. “America needs judges who prioritize public safety and hold criminals accountable—not judges who act like super-legislators.”
Gordon Shaw Jr. and wife Amanda outside the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office in Jackson.
A graduate of Mississippi College School of Law, Shaw has been licensed since 2008. His career includes eight years as the Municipal Prosecutor for Horn Lake and extensive private practice experience. Since joining the District Attorney’s office in 2024, he has successfully prosecuted numerous felony cases.
Beyond the courtroom, Shaw is a Leadership DeSoto graduate and a 4-H archery instructor. He resides in DeSoto County with his wife, Amanda, and their three children.
“A judge’s oath demands vigilance and moral courage,” Shaw said. “I am asking the people of DeSoto County to trust me with that responsibility on Nov. 3, 2026.”
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
