Hayden King: Building Clinton’s future

By Cara Pridemore

Those who know him say Hayden King at 25, is already making his mark as a leader with a passion for service. A member of the Mississippi College women’s basketball staff and a volunteer on Clinton’s Planning and Zoning Commission, King has dedicated himself to serving the community of Clinton.

“I’ve always believed in the importance of helping those around me reach their full potential and in doing my part to make Clinton the best it can be,” he said.

King was born and raised in Clinton, where he says his community instilled in him a strong sense of pride and excellence.

“Whether it be in the classroom, on the field, or in the stands, there’s always a sense that you are a part of something bigger than yourself – the spirit of unity and teamwork has always stayed with me,” he said.

After graduating from Clinton High School, King obtained his associate degree from Hinds Community College and bachelor’s degree in political science from Mississippi College, with a minor in homeland security. In May 2023, he obtained his master’s degree from MC in athletic administration.

“College taught me how to lead, communicate and bring people together around shared goals,” he said.

While at college, King served as the president of MC’s Turning Point USA chapter for three years. With Turning Point, King developed his organizational skills, coordinating on-campus events, bringing in speakers, engaging students about current affairs, promoting voter registration, leading disaster relief efforts and supporting veterans in the local community – all while promoting interparty discussion.

“What I did a little bit differently than other chapters was to bring together both sides of the aisle, both conservatives and those who are a little bit more left,” King said. “I think we can find a way to work together.”

In 2021, while still a college student, King ran for the Ward 5 Alderman seat in Clinton. Although his first campaign didn’t end in victory, he ran again in June 2025, earning five times more votes and only losing by 62 votes.

“I tried to do as much as I could on social media, like Facebook, putting ads out there,” King said. “I knocked on over nine hundred doors just to get my name out there and let people know who I am.”

King’s ran as a voice for the younger generation.

“We are a college town, but I don’t want to alienate other voters,” he said. “I want to bring them to the table and represent them with a seat at the table. I want to listen to what they’d like to see in Clinton, listen to any questions or concerns they may have.”

While King didn’t win this latest election, his momentum has not stopped, as he holds onto his strong vision for Clinton’s future.

“I’ve tried to use every opportunity to give back to the city that’s shaped me,” King said. “One of my goals is to represent our long-standing residents and the younger voices that will carry Clinton forward.”

King serves on the Planning and Zoning Commission, guiding Clinton’s long-term growth. His priorities include strengthening neighborhood infrastructure, expanding communication between residents and city leaders, attracting businesses to Olde Towne and building stronger partnerships between MC and the City.

“It’s important to continue to build and have our own identity while trying to make sure that we are well-maintained and can support each other here,” King said.

King also remains passionate about encouraging younger people’s engagement.

“I’d like to see more young people involved in civic life because, frankly, the future of our city depends on them,” he said.

For King, the strength of Clinton lies in the people of the schools, churches and neighborhoods that anchor the community.

“Clinton just has something special about it,” he said. “I think people in Clinton truly care about one another, whether it’s showing up for our schools, attending church and church events, volunteering for city initiatives and community events. It’s just a shared pride that makes this place feel special.”

As King continues to serve MC and the planning committee, he looks forward to his next campaign. He plans to build more support by staying involved in local organizations, such as Main Street Clinton and the Chamber of Commerce, and forming relationships with Clinton’s leaders.

“I do plan on running again,” he said. “I hope to see Clinton continue to grow while staying true to the values that define us.”

In everything he does, King hopes to share a message of optimism with the people of Clinton.

“I believe Clinton’s best days are ahead when we come together and support one another and stay involved,” he said. “I don’t think there’s a limit to what this community can achieve. Every person, doesn’t matter their age, background or position, has something valuable to contribute.”

With every initiative, King is relentless in his efforts to serve the city that’s shaped him.

“My hope is that we continue to build a city that reflects who we are – that we’re faithful, united and forward-looking,” he said.