Ellington

The Associated Press is reporting: State Rep. Leonard Morris, D-Batesville, remained in critical condition Friday, a day after having kidney surgery. A spokeswoman for the University of Mississippi Medical Center said a tumor was removed. Lawmakers who had spoken with Morris before the surgery said the whole kidney was supposed to be taken out, but it was unclear whether that was done. The hospital would not release more information without the family's consent. [...]

Morris, 59, has served in the Legislature since 1993 and is known for his thorough, mild-mannered approach to issues, even during stressful times.

He is chairman of the House Medicaid Committee and vice chairman of the powerful Ways and Means Committee, which handles tax and bond bills. His House district includes parts of Panola and Tate counties.