Priorities
EDUCATION:
Investing in Every Child
Every Child County Deserves a Safe, Modern Education
I believe that every student should learn in a safe, well-equipped school — with qualified teachers, smaller class sizes, and up-to-date facilities. To make that vision a reality, I support:
-
Full implementation of the $117 million school bond — with transparency, equity, and accountability to our community
-
Increased state funding to reduce the burden on local taxpayers, especially in rural and underserved schools
-
Expanded Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs to prepare students for good-paying, real-world jobs
-
High-speed broadband for every household — so no student is left behind because of where they live
Our kids are our future. Let’s invest in them — together.
MENTAL HEALTH:
Dignity & Care Over Jail
Residents should never be jailed for seeking mental health care.
I stand for real solutions—not punishment—for those in crisis. That’s why I support:
-
Full enforcement of civil commitment reforms (HB 1222 & HB 1640)
-
Increased funding for regional crisis response teams and mobile mental health units
-
Investment in long-overdue mental health infrastructure across South Mississippi
Our community deserves compassion, care, and access—not cuffs.
YOUTH & PUBLIC HEALTH:
Prevention Over Punishment
The rise in teen vaping and health inequities can’t be ignored.
I believe in protecting our youth and investing where it matters most. That’s why I support:
-
Youth vaping legislation that includes vendor licensing, zoning protections, and education—not just punishment
-
Expanded access to school counselors and youth mentorship programs
-
Public health investments in rural and working-class communities
Our kids deserve more than warnings—they deserve real support and a healthier future.
OUR STORY
Hello friends,
My name is Shakita Taylor. I’m a mother in a beautiful blended family and a proud 2009 graduate of Mississippi College School of Law. For the past 13 years, I’ve operated my own law firm here in Hattiesburg, where I also serve as a public defender. Most importantly, I’m someone who understands the real-life challenges that families in our community face every day.
As the daughter and sister of military veterans, I’ve proudly called Hattiesburg home for the past 15 years. My life here is rooted in service—whether through leading a Girl Scout troop, supporting local families in the courtroom, or being an active member of Grace Temple Church. These experiences have shown me the power of strong communities and the importance of faith in action.
It would be an honor to represent District 44 in the Mississippi State Senate.
Join me as we work together to build a stronger, fairer, and more compassionate Mississippi.
OUR CORE VALUES
Community Engagement
Empowering Local Voices
Our campaign is about you.
We’re committed to amplifying the voices of our community—making sure every person is heard, valued, and represented. By building strong relationships and encouraging real conversations, we’re creating a space for inclusive dialogue and collaborative decision-making that reflects the heart of District 44.
Together, we can shape policies that truly serve the people who call this community home.
Faith-Based Initiatives
Uniting through Faith
Faith is at the heart of this campaign.
It shapes our values, guides our actions, and reminds us of the power of love, service, and community. We believe that faith-based initiatives foster unity, compassion, and understanding—bringing people together across differences.
Together, we can build a community where faith strengthens our bonds and paves the way for a more just, hopeful, and harmonious Mississippi.
Progress-Driven Policies
Building a Better Tomorrow
It points us toward growth, equality, and opportunity for every member of our community. Shakita Taylor’s campaign is rooted in action—crafting and championing policies that address real issues, spark positive change, and move District 44 toward a brighter, more inclusive future.
Let’s build that future together—one step, one voice, one policy at a time.
