Republican Mississippi governor ignores Medicaid expansion and focuses on jobs in State of the State

By EMILY WAGSTER PETTUS
Associated Press

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Republican Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves says he intentionally avoided hot-button issues and political conflict in his State of the State address. He called on legislators during his speech Monday to support economic development by funding roads, ports and bridges. He urged them to establish 12 magnet schools that concentrate on mathematics and engineering, and to create apprenticeship programs so high school students could develop career skills. He also called for a reduction in taxes. Reeves did not mention Medicaid expansion. He opposes the issue. Republican legislative leaders say they are willing to consider it.