James Lott III

James Lott III has served in the U.S. Air National Guard since 2007. He earned a high school diploma from Callaway High School, a bachelor's degree from Jackson State University in 2015, a graduate degree from Belhaven University in 2017, and a Ph.D. from Jackson State University in 2026. His career experience includes working as an educator.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

James Lott III is an educator, military officer, community leader, and Clinton Alderman running for Mississippi House District 70. A JPS and Callaway High School graduate, he later returned to serve JPS as a graduation coach, teacher, and football coach. His career in public service has focused on education, local government, community development, and practical problem-solving.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Doing the work. Ready to do more.

As a current elected official, I understand how state decisions affect local communities. I have worked directly on public safety, infrastructure, budgeting, economic development, and constituent concerns. I want to bring that hands-on experience to the State Capitol and continue delivering practical results for District 70.Protect and invest in public education.

Public dollars should strengthen public schools. I support fully funding public education, supporting educators, expanding quality early childhood education, and ensuring strong accountability. I oppose policies that drain resources from public school districts to subsidize private education.Third key message

Build stronger, safer, more sustainable communities.

My priorities include smart infrastructure investment, public safety, protecting local assets, responsible long-range planning, economic opportunity, and strengthening PERS. I believe government should be accountable, accessible, and focused on investments that improve quality of life for families and businesses across District 70.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am most passionate about public education, infrastructure, public safety, protecting and investing in local assets, and retirement security. My experience as an educator and local elected official has shown me how strongly these issues affect families and communities. I also care deeply about responsible long-range planning, economic opportunity, and making sure government delivers practical results for the people it serves.