Mississippi News
Congressman asks feds to investigate Gov. Phil Bryant
Congressman asks feds to investigate former Gov. Phil Bryant’s welfare spending influence
U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson wrote a letter on Friday to U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland, asking for a Department of Justice investigation into former Gov. Phil Bryant’s influence over the possible misspending of federal welfare funds.
Bryant, who was Mississippi governor from 2012-2020, was first publicly accused of wrongdoing this week by key defendants in the state’s ongoing civil case regarding the sprawling welfare scandal. The defendants specifically said Bryant directed them to pay former NFL quarterback Brett Favre $1.1 million in welfare funds, among other grant spending.
“This gross misuse of (welfare grant) dollars must illicit a review of former Governor Phil Bryant’s involvement,” Thompson wrote. “Such an investigation should also examine the intolerable activity of retired NFL quarterback Brett Favre and how his actions were aided by Governor Bryant.”
READ MORE: Gov. Phil Bryant directed $1.1 million welfare payment to Brett Favre, defendant says
In his letter, Thompson referenced Mississippi Today’s “The Backchannel” investigative series, which first examined Bryant’s role in the scandal using never-before-published text messages shared with the news organization.
“It is egregious that news reports produce critical information that has yet to be addressed in the current investigations by state and local agencies,” Thompson wrote.
Thompson is not the first to call for a federal investigation of the former governor. In April, following initial publication of Mississippi Today’s “The Backchannel” series, the national president of the NAACP wrote a letter to Garland asking for a federal investigation.
READ MORE: Phil Bryant had his sights on a payout as welfare funds flowed to Brett Favre
Read the letter in full below:
This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.
Mississippi News
Pope Francis conscious but remains in critical condition after respiratory crisis
SUMMARY: Pope Francis remains in critical condition, receiving high supplemental oxygen following a respiratory crisis and blood transfusions. The 88-year-old, who has a history of lung issues, was hospitalized on February 14 due to a complex lung infection resulting in pneumonia. A Vatican update reported that he stabilized overnight but continues to face a reserved prognosis. While unable to celebrate Mass, he sent a message for prayers, highlighting the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Doctors warn of potential sepsis, but no signs have emerged yet. Recent decisions by Francis indicate his awareness of his declining health and preparations for succession.
The post Pope Francis conscious but remains in critical condition after respiratory crisis appeared first on www.wjtv.com
Mississippi News
Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: February 21-23
SUMMARY: This weekend in Mississippi (February 21-23), enjoy various activities including the William Winter Free Day at the Two Mississippi Museums in Jackson, and the “Art in Bloom” Flower Show in Natchez. Other highlights are the 31st Annual Chili Feast and “Of Salt and Spirit” quilt exhibition in Jackson, along with the Mississippi Blues Marathon. Engage in arts, culture, and wellness at the No Flinch Faith Women’s Empowerment Conference, and explore local markets in Jackson and Natchez. In Hattiesburg, participate in a Mardi Gras Tennis Mixer and various family-friendly events, culminating in the Monster Truck Mayhem show.
The post Events happening this weekend in Mississippi: February 21-23 appeared first on www.wjtv.com
Mississippi News
All aboard Delta flight survive after plane flips while landing in Toronto
SUMMARY: A Delta Air Lines flight from Minneapolis to Toronto flipped over while landing at Pearson Airport on February 17, 2025. All 80 passengers and crew survived, with 18 hospitalized for minor injuries. Blowing snow and high winds were reported at the time of landing. Passengers described a forceful landing, with one recalling the plane suddenly rolling sideways. Initial investigations indicated normal communications before the incident, and experts noted that the aircraft is designed to handle adverse weather. The Transportation Safety Board of Canada is investigating, particularly the missing right wing. No fatalities were reported.
The post All aboard Delta flight survive after plane flips while landing in Toronto appeared first on www.wjtv.com
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