JACKSON - Jamie Franks, chairman of the Mississippi Democratic Party, announced the hiring of Sam Hall as the party's new executive director.

"We're proud to have someone of Sam's ability and track record in Democratic politics joining us as the executive director," Franks said. "I look forward to working with him as we continue to build on our recent successes."

Franks said Hall brings deep ties to Mississippi and recent political success to the job. Hall said he hopes to use those ties and success to help build the party.

"There is much work to be done as we prepare for the upcoming election cycles, and I'm excited to get started," Hall said. "Right now, we've got a lot of excitement and momentum in the Democratic Party, and I plan to work hard to help continue these trends."

Hall will take over from Rosalind Rawls, who has served as interim executive director since last year.

"Rosalind has done a wonderful job of helping to keep the party moving forward during her time, and the party is thankful to her for her service," Franks said. "We wish her the best in her future endeavors."

Hall is a former journalist who has worked as a reporter, editor and publisher at daily and weekly newspapers in both Mississippi and Alabama. He is a former publisher of the Times-Post in Houston.

In the political world, Hall has served as communications director of the Mississippi Democratic Party and executive director of the Mississippi House Democratic caucus. In 2006, he managed two special elections for legislative seats.

Most recently, Hall served as campaign manager for Justice Jim Kitchens, who unseated a 16-year incumbent chief justice.

Hall was hired at the party's March 7 meeting of the executive committee. He will take over duties full time by the end of the month.

Hall is a native of Tupelo and currently lives in Rankin County with his wife, Tara, and their two children, Joshua and Ella. They are expecting their third child this fall.