Congratulations to Kevin Ford, who ran a grassroots campaign and after facing a runoff, was elected to fill the District 54 state representative’s seat.

Ford takes the seat vacated by Alex Monsour, who resigned after being elected south ward alderman in Vicksburg.

Ford’s win was impressive. He did it the ole-fashioned way, by getting out and speaking to constituents, going door to door and shaking a lot of hands. Ford had lots of help in that endeavor from his family and friends.

Ford is a graduate of Warren Central High School and Hinds Community College and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He established Ford Insurance Agency and along with his wife, Julie, owns Caffe’ Paradiso, a specialty coffee shop and bakery in Vicksburg. The couple are the parents of three children: Kayla, Jack and Natalie. Jack and Natalie are students at Bovina Elementary School. After college, Kayla has moved home and is beginning her career here.

Ford’s message on the importance of reforming public school education in Mississippi resonated with voters.

Ford advocates the full funding of the Mississippi Adequate Education Program, known as MAEP.

“Quality education is pivotal to promoting our community on both local and global arenas,” Ford said in his candidacy announcement.

He wants to end unfunded mandates from the Mississippi State Board of Education, which he said diverts money away from pursuits like hiring qualified teachers.

As a businessman, Ford also thinks taxes for individuals and small businesses should be reduced before reducing taxes on corporations. He said a strong emphasis should be placed on funding Mississippi Workforce Centers, which he said will result in increased skills for current and future jobs for the workforce in District 54.

Ford said he will work to protect the second amendment, saying no one can prosper if they do not feel safe in their home and community.

On Nov. 7, Ford faced off against contractor Joe Bonelli and Dr. Randy Easterling, a Vicksburg physician. Ford finished first in that contest and handily bested Easterling Tuesday in a runoff for the District 54 seat.

We wish him the best of luck as he goes forth to represent the people of District 54.