Wilson

The race for a judge’s seat in the 10th Circuit Court will narrow from three candidates to two, with Stephen Wilson, a local attorney, dropping out of the race.

In a Friday statement, Wilson said he would be splitting his practice between Georgia and Mississippi, where his wife’s family and his family live. 

“I also had an interest in running for Circuit Judge,” Wilson said. “So rather than let an opportunity go by, I qualified to run.”

Wilson announced he would withdraw his name in order to pursue his other opportunities. 

“I look forward to continuing to serve others through my practice here and I wish both candidates the best of luck,” Wilson said. 

Following the retirement of Judge Lester Williamson, only two candidates remain in the race to fill his seat: Robert T. “BO” Bailey and Robert Compton. Judges’ races are nonpartisan.

Current county court judges Veldore “Vel” Young Graham and Lisa Howell are unopposed. Howell was appointed by Gov. Phil Bryant when Frank Coleman retired last year.  

In Chancery Court, current Judge Larry Primeaux is running unopposed, while Charles E. “Charlie” Smith and Frances Smith Stephenson are seeking Judge Jerry Mason’s seat. Mason plans to retire this year.