By By Steve Gillespie/The Meridian Star
Dec. 16, 2001
Public Service Commissioner Nielsen Cochran says the state's redistricting problems could prompt him to run for lieutenant governor.
Cochran, the brother of U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran, said he is humbled by suggestions that he run for higher office but says he has no "burning desire" to be governor.
Cochran is serving his fourth term as the PSC's Central District commissioner. "I'm 60 years old. I thoroughly enjoy what I'm doing and I think we're doing a good job," he said.
However, public service commissioners are elected from Mississippi State Supreme Court districts and, should Cochran's district be altered by redistricting, he could have to retire or consider other options.
Changes in state population reported by Census 2000 are causing legislative districts to be redrawn but did not affect Supreme Court districts. But, Cochran said, it is possible some changes may be made anyway.
Cochran said his district is about 50 percent black and 50 percent white.
Cochran said he thinks Amy Tuck is doing a good job as lieutenant governor, but added that Mississippi has been in a recession for more than a year.
He called the upcoming legislative session is important.
Steve Gillespie is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3233, or e-mail him at sgillespie@themeridianstar.com.