In the race for the office of Brookhaven Mayor, the field has already narrowed to just two candidates.

Democrat candidate Jerry E. Kelly has withdrawn from the race, citing a desire for unity and progress.

“After much careful reflection and consideration, I have decided to withdraw from the mayoral race,” Kelly said. “This decision was not made lightly, but I believe it is the best course of action for the future of our community.”

In a formal statement, Kelly said:

“Our city is at a pivotal moment, and the last thing I want is for divisions to grow among us. The strength of our community lies in unity, and I have come to the conclusion that my stepping aside will allow for a more focused and harmonious approach to the challenges ahead.

“While I still believe deeply in the vision I shared throughout my campaign, I recognize that the needs of our city must come first. I hope that by stepping down, we can avoid any further division and work together to ensure that the right leader emerges to guide us into a brighter future.

“Thank you to all of you who have supported me along the way. I remain committed to our community and will continue to do my part to make it the best it can be.”

Remaining in the mayoral race are Democrat contender Larry Jointer and Republican incumbent Joe Cox. Each will be on both the Primary and General Election ballots.

In the 2021 election, Cox was reelected to a third term by a thin margin, less than one percentage point. He garnered 50.19 percent of the vote, with Jointer taking 49.51 percent. The remaining nine votes (0.31 percent) were write-ins. Just 40 percent of registered voters cast ballots in that election.

Mississippi municipal general elections are decided on plurality, meaning the candidate with the most votes wins, even if it is well below 50 percent plus one.

Only two posts will be determined in the General Election: alderman-at-large and mayor. The rest will be decided in the Primary.

Incumbent Alderman-at-large Don Underwood, a Republican, will face challenger Guy Orr in the Republican Primary. The winner there will face the winner of the Democrat Primary, either Jeffery Jordan or Ronald L. Hines.