There’s no nicer word than home 

The Lance Varner Farms Barn Burner was one of the most enjoyable fall evenings you could experience in Mississippi! Hosted by Rep. Lance Varner and his wonderful family. The event was a perfect blend of community, tradition, and fun. From the moment the sun began to set in hues of orange across the sky, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, warmth, and that unmistakable Southern charm.

Picture this: tractors lined up, hay bales scattered around, pumpkins placed in every corner, and a grill cooking up plenty of mouth-watering food. Add to that a local musician playing country tunes that got everyone in the spirit, and it was clear this would be a night to remember. The scene had all the makings of a classic Mississippi celebration, setting the stage for an evening filled with good company, delicious food, and a deep appreciation for our state.

One of the highlights of the event was the lineup of powerful political speeches. Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves, Congressman Michael Guest, Supreme Court candidate Jenifer Branning, Secretary of State Michael Watson, and Agricultural Commissioner Andy Gipson all spoke to the crowd. 


They didn’t just talk politics, though—they touched on values that run deep in Mississippi: love for our neighbors, pride in our great country, respect for our Constitution, and a commitment to the rule of law. Their speeches reminded us all of the importance of community, faith, and our shared identity as Mississippians and Americans.

While the speeches were impactful, the event was not without its simple pleasures. A personal favorite? The boiled peanuts. They were such a hit, people (myself included) couldn’t stop going back for more. And it wasn’t just the food that brought a smile to everyone’s face. There were goats, chickens, and even an adorable baby pig wearing an adorable tiny bow tie. Only in Mississippi could such a down-home, charming scene unfold, reminding us why we love this state.

What truly stood out at the Barn Burner wasn’t just the food or the farm animals, though—it was the overwhelming sense of Mississippi community. You could feel it in the air: the love for our state and for each other, no matter what. It wasn’t about politics or division, but about coming together as Mississippians, regardless of national politics. The Mississippi Republican Party was well-represented, but this was more than a political event. It was a gathering of people from all walks of life, united by common values and an appreciation for the simple joys of life in our state.

As Laura Ingalls Wilder once said, “There’s no nicer word than ‘home,” and that’s exactly what the Barn Burner felt like—home. Despite the political divisiveness often portrayed in the media, this event was proof that in Mississippi, we can come together to celebrate what makes our state so special—our shared Mississippi values.

Thank you to the Varners for hosting such a memorable night. We’re already looking forward to next year’s Barn Burner! There’s nothing quite like a Mississippi evening filled with good people, great food, unity, and a whole lot of love for our home state. Now, let’s GET OUT THE VOTE ON TUESDAY to elect Republicans from the top of the ballot down, and to keep our state Republican!