Steve Holland (politician) facts for kids

Daniel Stephen Holland (born November 5, 1955) is an American politician. He served in the Mississippi House of Representatives for 35 years, from 1985 to 2020. He represented the 16th district of Mississippi.

In 2008, he ran for a seat in the U.S. Congress. He did not win the Democratic party's nomination.

Early Life and Career

Steve Holland was born in Tupelo, Mississippi. His father was a farmer, and his mother, Sadie Holland, was also involved in local politics. After high school, Holland went to Mississippi State University.

For over 40 years, Holland worked as a funeral director. His father was a part-owner of a local funeral home, which helped him get a job there. Holland saw his work as a public service. He believed that helping families during sad times was an important way to serve his community. This work also connected him with many people who would later become his voters.

In 2013, his mother, who was a county judge, was the target of a dangerous crime involving poisoned letters. Thankfully, she was not harmed. The person responsible was later caught.

A Long Career in the Mississippi House

Holland had a long and eventful career as a state representative. He was known for his serious work and his sense of humor.

Important Laws

Early in his career, Holland helped pass laws that supported organ donation in Mississippi. This made it easier for people to donate organs and save lives.

Holland was also known for making political statements in creative ways. In 2012, he introduced a bill to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the "Gulf of America" for all official state business. He did this to make a point about what he thought the state government should be focusing on.

End of His Time in Office

In 2017, Holland announced he had been diagnosed with dementia, a health condition that affects memory. He said he would not run for re-election when his term ended in 2019.

However, in 2019, he changed his mind and decided to run for his 10th term. This time, he ran as an Independent instead of a Democrat. He lost the election to Rickey W. Thompson.

Film Appearance

Holland appeared as himself in a documentary film.