Johnson reports record fundraising in First District congressional race
TAYLOR, Miss. — Democrat Cliff Johnson announced Monday that his campaign for Mississippi’s First Congressional District raised more than $260,000 in its debut fundraising quarter, marking a historic shift in the state’s political landscape.
The total, for the period ending Dec. 31, 2025, represents the highest single-quarter haul for a Democratic candidate in the district in over a decade. According to campaign filings, the figure also surpasses any single-quarter total reported by the incumbent, Republican Rep. Trent Kelly, since he first took office following a 2015 special election.
Grassroots Momentum
Johnson’s campaign reported that the funds came from more than 1,000 individual donors, with nearly 70% of the contributions originating from Mississippi residents. Notably, the campaign stated it has not accepted any money from political action committees (PACs).
The donations spanned 17 of the 21 counties that comprise the First Congressional District, which covers the northern portion of the state including Southaven, Oxford, and Columbus.
“I am truly grateful for the outpouring of support from people all across this district,” Johnson said in a statement. “From Southaven to Columbus, our grassroots campaign is resonating with the people of Mississippi’s First Congressional District.”
A Challenge to the Incumbent
The fundraising surge signals a competitive edge in a district that has long leaned Republican. Johnson, an attorney known for his work with the ACLU of Mississippi, is positioning his campaign as a “truth to power” movement.
“As I travel around North Mississippi, I have heard from voters of all parties that what they are looking for right now is someone who isn’t afraid to speak truth to power,” Johnson said. “I won’t stop until every hard-working Mississippian has the fair shot at the security and stability that they deserve.”
Key Endorsements
Since entering the race, Johnson has secured backing from several prominent local Democratic figures, including:
- State Sen. Theresa Gillespie-Isom
- Dianne Black, former Democratic congressional nominee
- Montravius Hall, former congressional candidate
The First Congressional District seat will be on the ballot in the 2026 midterm elections.
