Bennie Thompson — Democrat Candidate for U.S. House in Mississippi, 2026
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Bennie's Positions on Key Issues
Economy
HighCongressman Bennie Thompson strongly supports job creation and economic revitalization, advocating for initiatives like the Make It in America agenda, which includes the Small Business Jobs Act. He believes job creation is Congress's top priority, and supported the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to strengthen the economy. Thompson has also criticized claims of a strong economy when working families face difficulties affording basic necessities.
“Tonight’s State of the Union address was another circus performance. The American people needed honesty about the challenges we are facing. Instead, we got talking points. The President stood before the country claiming the economy is stronger than ever, that costs are coming down, that health care access has expanded, and that his policies are making Americans safer and more secure. Families across this nation know better. If the economy were as strong as he claims, working people would not be struggling to afford groceries, utilities, health care, and childcare. If life were more affordable, medical and food assistance programs would not be on the chopping block. If democracy were being protected, we would not see continued efforts to make it harder for people to vote and weaken hard fought civil rights protections. Once again, we heard self-congratulation instead of accountability. This was another attempt to rewrite reality, and I am not surprised by what we witnessed tonight. It only confirms that we, as Democrats, must stay engaged and stand firm.” — Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), in a statement on Donald Trump’s State of the Union Address, Washington, D.C.”
Immigration
HighRepresentative Bennie Thompson voted against funding the Department of Homeland Security in 2026, citing concerns over immigration enforcement tactics by ICE and CBP. He criticized actions in Minnesota, including an officer's shooting, stating he cannot support agencies that "terrorize our communities and sully the constitution." Thompson emphasized the need for transparency and accountability for DHS operations, advocating for agents to wear body cameras and display clear identification, and opposing agents wearing masks.
“I have consistently supported the DHS workforce over the past two decades and continue to do so, but I cannot—in good conscience—vote to send another dime to CBP and ICE as they terrorize our communities and sully the constitution. I will be voting no." — Rep. Bennie Thompson, Mississippi Free Press”
Healthcare
HighBennie Thompson advocates for accessible healthcare for all Americans, criticizing Republican policies such as H.R. 1, which he states cut $1 trillion from Medicaid and capped medical school student loans. He argues these actions limit healthcare coverage, increase costs, and hinder the training of future healthcare professionals. Thompson supports expanding funding for children's hospitals and opposed the expiration of Affordable Care Act tax credits.
“Mr. Chairman, once again, my Republican colleagues would rather talk about anything but the fact that they have eliminated healthcare coverage for millions of Americans. If Americans can’t get coverage, they can’t afford their health care. – Bennie Thompson, Opening Statement at Health Subcommittee Hearing on Advancing the Next Generation of America’s Health Care Workforce, February 24, 2026”
Climate & Energy
LowBennie Thompson voted against the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act (HR 4758) and the Don't Mess With My Home Appliances Act (HR 4626) in February 2026. He also voted against HR 261, which would prohibit permit requirements for undersea cables in national marine sanctuaries. These votes indicate support for environmental regulations and protections.
Abortion & Reproductive Rights
MediumBennie Thompson voted in favor of the Women's Health Protection Act of 2021 (H.R. 3755), which aimed to prohibit governmental restrictions on abortion services and access. More recently, in January 2026, he voted against both the Pregnant Students' Rights Act and the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act. Thompson has not completed Ballotpedia's 2026 Candidate Connection survey, and his 2026 voting record does not explicitly mention other specific positions on abortion.
Foreign Policy
LowResearch pending more substantial sources.
Education
MediumBennie Thompson is committed to reauthorizing the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) to provide federal aid to K-12 education. He advocates for increased funding for public school districts to offer innovative educational tools to teachers, parents, and students. This aims to close achievement gaps and raise outcomes for all children. Thompson is also a co-sponsor of the Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2026, which proposes over $130 billion for school infrastructure, focusing on high-poverty schools.
Gun Policy
MediumBennie Thompson voted against H.R. 2189 in 2026, a bill designed to modernize federal firearms laws. This action is consistent with his previous support for background checks. For example, he voted "Yea" on the Bipartisan Background Checks Act of 2019 (H.R. 8), which aimed to require background checks for private firearm transfers through licensed dealers.
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