Mississippi is in the headlines again. This time due to MS being the last state in the country that has the Confederate battle flag in its state flag.

There is a growing push to change the flag to something that is more representative of MS today, as opposed to the late 1800s.

As usual, there are loud voices pro and con for any change.

However, there are meek voices in between. Our most prominent elected officials are not stating their view, but instead are saying let the people vote. This is not leadership.

We the people elected these persons as our representatives. Their job is to represent the will of the people and do what is best for MS.

While I am supportive of a change in the flag, I understand that others are not, however the task for elected officials is to do and promote what is best for all of Mississippi.

I have yet to have any answer to the question on “why keeping the current flag is best for MS?”

I’ve heard heritage vs. hate arguments. I’ve heard we already voted arguments. I’ve heard the slippery slope arguments of what’s next if it is changed, but what is deafening is any cogent, reasonable reason to maintain the current, indisputably divisive flag.

Leadership is the action of leading. It is time for our Leaders to have an opinion, back it up and do what they believe is best for all of Mississippi. Take a stand.

Matthew Thompson is a civil lawyer in Mississippi and expects elected officials to lead.