Jeffrey Hulum III

Jeffrey Hulum III grew up in Gulfport's Gaston Point community, where his mother raised four children while working two jobs.¹ He says neighbors and relatives helped when money ran short, experiences he connects with his later community work.¹ He attended Gulfport public schools and still calls the community home.²

Hulum enlisted in the Army in 1996 and served 22 years, retiring as a sergeant major.¹² His service included deployments to Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan.¹ After returning home, he founded Extend A Hand, Help A Friend, a nonprofit addressing food insecurity.² Its work includes food distributions, a mobile pantry, summer programming and school mentoring.¹

He won a 2022 special election to Mississippi House District 119 and now serves as vice chair of the Marine Resources Committee.¹ He describes his state work as focusing on public schools, law enforcement oversight and TRICARE reimbursement for National Guard personnel.¹ His other committee assignments cover ports, harbors, airports, military affairs and tourism.¹

His congressional proposals include a $15 federal minimum wage tied to living costs, permanent Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, Medicaid funding and stronger veterans' healthcare access.¹ He also emphasizes public schools, food assistance and insurance affordability.¹ He faces Republican Mike Ezell and independent Carl Boyanton.³