Otha E. Williams III is a Democratic member of the Mississippi House of Representatives, representing District 26. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, while his father trained at Temple University/Episcopal Hospital, his family returned to Mississippi, settling in Greenville in 1978 and Clarksdale in 1980. A Clarksdale native, he won a non-partisan special election in 2025 with 52% of the vote, avoiding a runoff, to serve the remainder of the term vacated by Orlando Pace, who became Mayor of Clarksdale. Williams is projected to caucus with House Democrats and focuses on education, economic development, workforce opportunities, and public safety across party lines.

Notable achievements include serving over 26 years at Coahoma Community College as a work-based learning coordinator and instructor, and appointment as Commissioner for the Yazoo Delta Levee Board, addressing public safety and infrastructure in 12 Delta counties.

Education and Political Experience

• Graduated from Clarksdale High School in 1991.
• Attended Coahoma Community College before transferring to Alcorn State University.

Williams has held numerous leadership roles at Coahoma Community College for over two decades. His political career began with the 2025 special election victory for House District 26.