Biography
Bennie Gordon Thompson, born on January 28, 1948, in Bolton, Mississippi, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving Mississippi's 2nd Congressional District since 1993. He is the longest-serving African American elected official in Mississippi and the sole Democrat in the state's congressional delegation. Throughout his career, Thompson has been a steadfast advocate for civil rights, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and property rights.
Education and Political Experience
-
Education:
- Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Tougaloo College
- Master of Science in Educational Administration from Jackson State University
-
Political Experience:
- Alderman of Bolton, Mississippi
- Mayor of Bolton
- Hinds County Supervisor
- U.S. Representative for Mississippi's 2nd Congressional District
Notable Achievements and Positions
-
Committee Leadership:
- Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee
- Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee
- Chairman of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol
-
Legislative Initiatives:
- Played a key role in establishing the National Center for Minority Health and Health Care Disparities in 2000.
- Advocated for significant federal investments in infrastructure within Mississippi's 2nd District.
- Supported the Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund , securing nearly $575 million for higher education in Mississippi, including over $237 million for seven Historically Black Colleges and Universities .
-
Awards and Honors:
- Received the Presidential Citizens Medal in January 2025 for his unwavering commitment to upholding the Constitution and defending democracy.
- Honored with the Chairman’s Award during the 2023 NAACP Image Awards for his advocacy for civil rights.
Throughout his tenure, Congressman Thompson has remained dedicated to addressing systemic challenges in his district, championing education, healthcare, infrastructure, and civil rights, leaving a lasting impact on Mississippi and the broader fight for justice and equity.
