Wicker shares Boys State experience

<!–Saxotech Paragraph Count: 19
–>

U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker remembers his time at Boys State well.

In 1968, Hinds Community College hosted the event designed to give students the opportunity to learn about politics and governance.

While Wicker was at Boys State, the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy was making headlines.

On Wednesday, Wicker told this year’s Boys State attendees all about his experiences back in 1968 and gave them a glimpse into what it’s like to be an elected official today.

During his time at Boys State, Wicker ran for governor – but lost.

“But that did not stop me from reaching my goals many years later as a U.S. senator” said Wicker, who stressed the importance of being a proud American.

Boys State delegates sang the national anthem with the senator, who also told them about the friends he gained from being a part of the American Legion-sponsored program.

At the end of the night, representatives from “Wicker City” presented Wicker with a shirt signed by each member of the city.

Also on Wednesday, the winners in the race for offices in the mythical state of Magnolia were announced.

Statewide office winners included:

Gov. John Braham, 17, of Hattiesburg attends Presbyterian Christian School.

Lt. Gov. Austin Powell, 17, of Corinth attends Corinth High.

Secretary of State Allan Guy, 17, of Flowood attends Northwest Rankin High.

Attorney General Levi Howse, 17, of Port Gibson attends Chamberlain Hunt Military Academy.

State Auditor Zach Slaughter, 17, of Starkville attends Starkville Academy.

State Treasurer Logan Reeves, 17, of Pelahatchie attends East Rankin Academy.

Commissioner of Agriculture Alex Huff, 17, of Brandon homeschooled.

Commissioner of Insurance Skyler Flowers, 17, of Sumrall attends Sumrall High.

Boys State will end Saturday with the final elections for Boys Nation.