Joseph C. Thomas

Joseph C. Thomas Sr. (born June 25, 1949) is an American politician, serving in the Mississippi Senate from the 21st district from 2004 to 2008 and from the 22nd district since 2020.

Early life and education Thomas was born in Yazoo City, where he attended N. D. Taylor High School.

Career After graduating, Thomas began working at a AmSouth Bank, where he eventually retired from as vice-president after 30 years of service. He was later appointed by Governor Ronnie Musgrove to serve as a board member on the Strategic Economic Development and Planning Committee. Around the same time, he was appointed as chairman of Yazoo City Public Schools and chairman of the Yazoo City Public Service Commission. He ran for reelection in 2007, but lost in the Democratic primary with 48.82% of the vote. In early 2019, a federal judge ruled for a redrawing of the district, claiming that it "diluted black voting power." With redrawn districts, he secured 32.6% of the Democratic primary vote, 60.7% in the Democratic runoff, and 52.4% in the general election.

He voted for changing the Mississippi state flag.

Personal life He has three children and is of Baptist faith.