Ty Pinkins leaves Democratic Party, will continue campaign as Independent

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — Ty Pinkins, U.S. Army veteran, attorney, author, and lifelong son of the Mississippi Delta, announced today that he is officially leaving the Democratic Party and will continue his campaign for the United States Senate as an Independent in the 2026 midterm election.

“I didn’t make this decision lightly,” said Pinkins in a video released from his campaign headquarters in Vicksburg. “But I made it with clarity, purpose, and a deep belief in putting people over party.”

Pinkins cited widespread voter disillusionment with both political parties, the corrupting influence of money in politics following the Citizens United decision, and his own personal experiences with party insiders who prioritized fundraising over values and vision.

“When I first entered this race, party officials didn’t ask me about healthcare, veterans, or education,” he said. “They asked how much money I had. And when I refused to step aside for their handpicked, millionaire-backed candidate, they tried to buy me off—and then they threatened me. But I didn’t serve 21 years in uniform to be bullied by party bosses.”

Pinkins’s decision marks a bold departure from traditional party politics in Mississippi, where Independent candidacies are rare. He emphasized that his independence is not political isolation, but a declaration of accountability solely to the people of Mississippi.

“I don’t take money from billionaires. I don’t take money from Super PACs. I don’t own a single stock—and I pledge not to buy or sell any as your next U.S. Senator,” Pinkins said. “The American people have lost trust in their leaders. It’s time to earn that trust back.”

Pinkins’ platform remains focused on five pillars: economic dignity, accessible healthcare, veterans rights, voting rights, and clean government. He has vowed to champion legislation banning insider stock trading in Congress and to advocate for a constitutional amendment to overturn Citizens United.

A decorated veteran who served three combat tours, Pinkins has a long history of public service. 

“This campaign isn’t about political parties—it’s about the people. The forgotten, the working, the hopeful,” Pinkins said. “If you’re tired of being taken for granted by politicians who answer to donors instead of you, then join me. This is your campaign, too.”