STATE REP. FRED SHANKS ON ABC LIQUOR BACKLOG, MOBILE SPORTS BETTING & MORE

In this segment of The Clay Edwards Show, host Clay Edwards welcomes Mississippi State Rep. Fred Shanks for a no-holds-barred discussion on pressing state issues. They tackle the ongoing liquor distribution crisis, including warehouse backlogs, delivery delays, and calls from local stores like Spillway Wine and Spirits for a state of emergency to resolve it—potentially deploying creative solutions like extra manpower to clear orders and stem massive tax revenue losses. Fred updates on legislative wins, including funding for school resource officers, the Children's Promise Act for tax credits, mobile sports betting to boost PERS and generate over $100 million annually, and appropriations for Jackson's sewer system while killing harmful bills. They celebrate a major victory on the Pearl River widening project led by Pearl Mayor Jake Windham, promising flood protection and transformative development for Rankin County and Jackson. The conversation shifts to Jackson's controversial police chief hire, emphasizing the need for boots-on-the-ground enforcement over studies. Fred shares insights on Trump's pardon czar, Mississippi native Alice Johnson, her redemption story from life in prison to White House role, and efforts to restore voting rights for nonviolent felons. They dive into national politics, debating Stephen A. Smith's potential 2028 presidential run as a common-sense Democrat shaking up a weak bench against figures like AOC and Gavin Newsom. Plus, quick hits on I-20 repaving and casino revenue for education. Raw, insightful talk on Mississippi's challenges and wins!