Ben Suber

Benjamin Suber is an American attorney and politician currently serving as a member of the Mississippi State Senate, representing the 8th district. A member of the Republican Party, he has been in office since January 2020. Suber has a background in law and local governance, and he has engaged in various community and professional activities throughout his career.

Early life and career

Ben Suber was born in Oxford, Mississippi, and spent part of his formative years in Arkansas, where he attended Manila High School. His educational journey included studies at both Arkansas State University and Mississippi State University, culminating in a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the Mississippi College School of Law. This legal education laid the groundwork for his career as a practicing attorney.

Following his graduation from law school, Suber began his professional career in the legal field. He serves as the town attorney for Pittsboro, Mississippi, where he provides legal counsel and representation for the local government. In addition to his role as town attorney, he is actively involved in the community through various organizations. He holds a position on the Board of Directors for the Calhoun County Farm Bureau and is also a member of the Advisory Board of Directors for the Calhoun Banking Center. His involvement in these organizations reflects his commitment to local agricultural and financial issues.

Suber has also served as the Municipal Judge for Bruce, Mississippi. In this capacity, he was appointed as a special judge in a case involving school officials from Calhoun County, demonstrating his legal expertise and the trust placed in him by the judicial system. His background in law and local governance has equipped him with a unique perspective on the challenges facing his community.

His entry into politics was prompted by the announcement that incumbent Mississippi State Senator Russell Jolly would not seek re-election for the 8th district seat. Suber decided to run for the position and faced several opponents in the Republican primary. He successfully secured his candidacy by winning a significant percentage of the votes in the primary and runoff elections. Ultimately, he won the general election, assuming office on January 7, 2020.

Legislative service

Since taking office, Ben Suber has been actively involved in the legislative process within the Mississippi State Senate. He has been appointed to several committees, reflecting his engagement with a variety of issues pertinent to his constituents and the state at large. For the 2021 legislative session, he serves as the Vice-Chair of the Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Committee. In addition to this role, he is a member of several other committees, including Agriculture, Appropriations, Business and Financial Institutions, Constitution, Enrolled Bills, Judiciary Division B, and Municipalities. His committee assignments indicate a broad interest in both environmental and economic issues, as well as governance and legal matters.

Suber's legislative efforts have included sponsorship of bills aimed at addressing specific community needs. For instance, in June 2020, he sponsored a bill intended to enable the municipality of Okolona to provide broadband Internet services using existing infrastructure owned by the city, such as utility poles. However, this bill did not advance in the Senate, a decision that drew criticism from local officials, including the Mayor of Okolona.

His legislative service has been characterized by a focus on practical solutions to issues affecting his district and the state. Suber has shown a commitment to improving vocational education in public schools, recognizing the importance of preparing students for the workforce. He has also advocated for enhanced access to mental health care for individuals charged with or convicted of drug offenses, highlighting a concern for public health and rehabilitation. Additionally, he has expressed support for affordable health insurance, reflecting a broader interest in healthcare access for his constituents.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Mississippi State Senate representing the 8th district, Ben Suber has focused on various policy areas that are significant to his constituents. His advocacy for vocational education underscores a recognition of the need for skilled labor in the workforce, particularly in a state where economic development is closely tied to the availability of trained workers. By promoting vocational training programs, he aims to equip young people with the skills necessary to succeed in various industries.

Mental health care access is another critical area of focus for Suber. His support for increasing mental health services for individuals involved in the criminal justice system reflects a growing awareness of the intersection between mental health and public safety. By addressing these issues, he aims to promote rehabilitation and reduce recidivism rates, contributing to a safer community overall.

Suber's interest in healthcare extends to the broader issue of health insurance affordability. His calls for more accessible health insurance options highlight the challenges many families face in obtaining necessary medical care without incurring significant financial burdens. This focus aligns with national conversations about healthcare reform and access to essential services.

In addition to his legislative priorities, Suber is actively engaged in community organizations, such as the Bruce Rotary Club and the Mississippi Bar Association. These affiliations demonstrate his commitment to civic engagement and professional development, further enhancing his connection to the community he serves.

Suber is married and has five children, and he identifies as a Methodist. His personal life, combined with his professional and political endeavors, reflects a commitment to family and community values. Through his role in the Mississippi State Senate, he continues to work on behalf of the residents of the 8th district, addressing their concerns and advocating for policies that aim to improve their quality of life.