Ty Pinkins

Where Pinkins stands

Grouped by topic by Vote Book; headings and quoted words are the candidate’s own, with the source under each one. “As reported” items are a news outlet’s description, not an exact quote.

Immigration & border

What, if any, measures would you propose or support to reform US immigration policy?

I support comprehensive immigration reform that secures our borders while creating a fair and humane immigration system. For too long, Washington has treated immigration as a political talking point instead of a problem to solve. We need stronger and smarter border security, including modern technology and sufficient personnel, while also fixing the broken legal immigration system so people can pursue work and opportunity through lawful channels. I also support an earned pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have lived in this country for years, follow the law, pay taxes, and contribute to their communities. Finally, we must address the root causes of migration by working with partner nations to improve economic stability and security in the Western Hemisphere. America is a nation of laws and a nation of immigrants. Our policies should reflect both principles while treating people with dignity and respect.

Health care

What measures, if any, would you propose or support to improve the US health system to benefit citizens of Mississippi?

I support moving the United States toward universal healthcare so that every American can see a doctor without fear of financial ruin. The United States spends more on healthcare than any other developed nation, yet too many Mississippians still struggle to afford basic care. In Mississippi, improving healthcare access must also mean strengthening rural healthcare. I support expanding the healthcare workforce by allowing nurse practitioners to practice to the full extent of their training, which would help address provider shortages in rural communities. We must also reduce prescription drug costs, invest in rural hospitals, and expand access to preventive care so people can receive treatment before small health issues become life-threatening emergencies. My goal is a healthcare system that is affordable, accessible, and focused on keeping people healthy, not one driven primarily by insurance companies and pharmaceutical profits.

Education

A Quality Education for Every Child

I’m a proud product of the Mississippi public school system. My parents—hardworking folks who didn’t have much—instilled in me the importance of getting a good education. I graduated from Rolling Fork High School, then went on to Tougaloo College before joining the U.S. Army.

Increase access to career and technical education (CTE)

and vocational programs that prepare students for good-paying jobs

Address the teacher shortage

by raising salaries and ensuring schools can hire qualified educators, counselors, social workers, and nurses

Modernize school buildings

, including improving ventilation systems, to ensure safe, healthy learning environments

Foreign policy

What is your position on foreign policy, specifically in relation to current global hotspots?

My foreign policy approach is guided by three principles: protecting American security, strengthening alliances, and pursuing diplomacy whenever possible to avoid unnecessary wars. The United States must remain engaged in the world, but we should be thoughtful and strategic in how we use our power. In Ukraine, I support continued international pressure on Russia and assistance that helps Ukraine defend its sovereignty while working toward a durable diplomatic resolution. In the Middle East, the United States must push for stability, protect our allies, and pursue serious diplomatic efforts to prevent broader regional conflict while prioritizing humanitarian concerns and the protection of civilian lives. More broadly, the United States should work closely with democratic allies to address global challenges such as economic instability, climate change, and security threats. Strong diplomacy, responsible leadership, and cooperation with allies are essential.

Elections, ethics & government

What are your goals and priorities for this office?

My goal in the United States Senate is to ensure government works for the people rather than wealthy interests and special interest groups. I believe restoring trust in our democracy requires transparency, accountability, and elected officials who serve their constituents, not political parties or donors. One of my top priorities is strengthening the guardrails of our democracy by banning members of Congress from buying, selling, or trading individual stocks and reducing the influence of unlimited money in politics. I also support universal healthcare so that no American has to choose between paying their bills and seeing a doctor, especially in rural states like Mississippi where access to care is limited. Finally, I will focus on addressing the affordability crisis by supporting policies that create good-paying jobs, strengthen small businesses, invest in infrastructure, and expand economic opportunity for communities across Mississippi.

Background & priorities

What experience has best qualified you for this position? (Note: also, there is 1000 characters space in your bio area for qualifications and background.)

My entire adult life has been spent in public service. I served 21 years on active duty in the United States Army, including three combat tours in Iraq totaling more than 36 months. During my military career I rose to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Three and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for my leadership and service. While still on active duty, I earned my bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Maryland and later earned both a J.D. and LL.M. from Georgetown University Law Center. I also served as a Communications Aide at the White House under both a Republican and a Democratic president. As an attorney, I have fought for working people by suing companies that cheated Mississippi workers out of their pay and winning millions of dollars for those workers. I also joined a successful lawsuit that forced Mississippi to redraw unfair Supreme Court district lines. These experiences in military service, law, and public leadership have prepared me to serve.

Other priorities

Reduce class sizes

, especially in early grades, to allow more individualized instruction and better outcomes