President Donald Trump on Saturday announced he is endorsing U.S. Rep. Mike Ezell for reelection ahead of the 2026 midterm race. 

Trump on social media called Ezell, a Republican who represents South Mississippi in Congress, a “fantastic Representative for the wonderful People of Mississippi’s 4th Congressional District.” 

“In Congress, he is working tirelessly to Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, Grow our Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., Champion American Energy DOMINANCE, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment,” Trump wrote. 

Ezell, a former Jackson County sheriff, was elected in 2022 after defeating incumbent Republican Steven Palazzo. He was reelected in 2024 and will be up for a third term in 2026. 

Sawyer Walters, a former Palazzo staffer, announced he would challenge Ezell in the 2026 GOP primary. Paul James Blackman, a political newcomer, announced he was running as a Democrat for the seat.

The qualifying period for congressional elections runs from Dec. 1 through Dec. 26. Party primary elections are in March of 2026. The party nominees will face one another in the general election in November 2026.