Mississippi News

Anna Wolfe discusses welfare scandal on MSNBC

Published

3 years ago

July 28, 2022

Mississippi Today reporter Anna Wolfe discusses welfare scandal on MSNBC’s ‘Morning Joe’

by Mississippi Today, Mississippi Today
July 28, 2022

Mississippi Today investigative reporter Anna Wolfe, who has closely covered the state’s welfare scandal for more than three years, joined MSNBC’s “Morning Joe” on Tuesday morning to discuss a dramatic new development in the case.

WATCH: Wolfe’s full MSNBC interview about the Mississippi welfare scandal

(Note: Skip to the 16:15 mark to watch welfare scandal segment)

Wolfe was asked about the abrupt firing of Brad Pigott, the attorney hired by the state’s welfare department to recoup tens of millions in stolen welfare funds — money intended to help the state’s poorest residents but instead benefitted friends of welfare officials and celebrities.

Pigott, a former U.S. attorney and Democrat who had recently subpoenaed the Southern Miss Athletic Foundation for communications it had with former Gov. Phil Bryant and NFL legend Brett Favre, said his firing was politically motivated. Pigott said political operatives in current Gov. Tate Reeves’ office were behind the firing, which has spurred questions of a cover-up in the ongoing case.

Wolfe also discussed Bryant’s role in the scheme, which has become a public focus following Wolfe’s “The Backchannel” investigation. On Wednesday, Mississippi Today broke news that Bryant has been subpoenaed for records regarding the biggest purchase of the welfare scheme — a $5 million volleyball center at University of Southern Mississippi, the former governor’s alma mater.

This article first appeared on Mississippi Today and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

Mississippi News

Death toll from catastrophic Texas flooding passes 100

Published

21 hours ago

July 8, 2025

Staff Editor

www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-07-08 05:12:00

SUMMARY: Catastrophic flooding in Texas over the July Fourth weekend killed at least 104 people, including 28 children, mostly near Camp Mystic, a century-old girls’ summer camp in Kerr County. Search-and-rescue teams continue to search swollen rivers for dozens still missing; officials expect the death toll to rise as more rain threatens the saturated area. Many victims were swept from cabins by flash floods early Friday, some clinging to trees. Authorities will investigate warnings and evacuation delays, noting poor cellphone service hindered alerts. Despite warnings issued before the flood, some residents didn’t receive them. President Trump plans to visit the state.

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Mississippi News

LIVE: Officials give updates on Texas floods

Published

2 days ago

July 7, 2025

Staff Editor

www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-07-07 05:06:00

SUMMARY: Crews in central Texas continue searching for victims after catastrophic July Fourth weekend flooding killed over 80 people, including 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River. The floods, some of the worst in decades, struck overnight, sweeping away tents and cabins. With more rain forecast, authorities warn the death toll may rise as many remain missing. Survivors described clinging to trees or fleeing to attics. Officials face scrutiny over flood warnings and emergency response. President Trump declared Kerr County a disaster area, pledging support while criticizing FEMA’s performance.

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Mississippi News

Texas floods: At least 51 dead, 27 girls still missing as search efforts continue

Published

3 days ago

July 6, 2025

Staff Editor

www.wjtv.com – The Associated Press – 2025-07-06 08:16:00

SUMMARY: A devastating flash flood struck a summer camp along Texas’ Guadalupe River, killing at least 51 people, including 15 children, with many missing, mainly from Camp Mystic. The floodwaters surged 26 feet in 45 minutes early Friday, washing away homes and vehicles. Rescue teams face challenging terrain, using helicopters, boats, and drones to search for survivors amid debris and broken trees. Authorities are scrutinized for potential warning and preparation failures. Gov. Greg Abbott declared a day of prayer, while rescue and recovery efforts continue amid fears of additional flooding. The Hill Country’s flood-prone terrain and unexpected downpour overwhelmed campers and residents, prompting widespread grief and appeals for support.

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