Rumor Has It: Something’s Fishy in Senatobia’s Ward-3 Election

By Gloria Zuurveen, Editor-in-Chief

The recent election in Senatobia’s Ward-3, held alongside the mayoral race, has raised serious questions. Unofficial results show Allen “Vashon” Tanksley (D) securing 132 votes, while Michael Cathey (D) trailed by just one vote with 131. But the numbers alone don’t tell the full story—something about this election doesn’t sit right.

As the founder, CEO & Publisher of a legally adjudicated newspaper based in Los Angeles since 1995, I have covered elections at every level—city, state, and national. I have worked with mayors, city council members, state officials and I have also held White House press credentials to cover the United States presidents. I’ve even run for office myself. One universal truth in politics is that campaigns require funding, and that funding almost always comes from donors with vested interests. That’s why what happened in Ward-3 is worth deeper scrutiny.

While Michael Cathey’s campaign had little in the way of marketing, yard signs, or large-scale visibility, Tanksley’s campaign had a different story—one that doesn’t quite add up. Many Ward-3 residents report never having been asked to donate to his campaign, yet his presence was highly visible. Yard signs appeared in large numbers. A massive illuminated banner stood prominently along the highway. Where did the money come from? And more importantly, what was expected in return?

A Community’s Vote at Risk

I spoke with several grassroots supporters of Michael Cathey—residents who have been working to preserve Senatobia’s identity and resist gentrification and political strongholds that cater to the status quo. They voiced deep concerns about how this election was conducted.

There are troubling reports—though unverified—that some absentee voters may have also cast ballots in person on election day. If true, this would represent a serious breach of election integrity. In pursuit of answers, PACE NEWS contacted the Mississippi Secretary of State’s (MSOS) office, which directed us to submit an inquiry via email. Our request for clarification on the statute regarding absentee voters casting in-person ballots was forwarded to Elizabeth Johnson, a representative for the MSOS. An email was subsequently sent, seeking verification and legal clarification on the matter.

Something isn’t adding up. Were all votes counted fairly? Were safeguards in place to prevent duplicate voting? Transparency in the electoral process isn’t just a right—it’s a necessity.

Who’s Really Pulling the Strings?

Politics, especially in small towns, is often influenced by forces outside the voters’ direct control. When a candidate with no visible fundraising efforts suddenly has access to extensive resources, it begs the question—who is funding this campaign and why? The concern isn’t just about one election; it’s about what’s at stake for the people of Ward-3.

Development projects, taxpayer-funded initiatives, and community resources are on the line. Who will benefit from these decisions? Who truly has a voice in shaping the future of Ward-3? If voters are left in the dark about who is backing their elected officials, they risk being locked out of the very decisions that affect their daily lives.

A Call for Accountability

Michael Cathey—and the people of Ward-3—deserve answers. If there’s any question about the fairness of this election, a recount is not just justified—it’s necessary.

To the voters of Ward-3: This is your community, your future, and your right to fair representation. Stay vigilant. Demand transparency. Because if there’s one thing history has taught us, it’s that the people’s voice matters—but only if it is heard.

The Southern Truth