Mississippi Scott Colom Supporters Celebrate Historic Senate Victory After Tight Count
A historic result in Mississippi
Colom, a 43-year-old local prosecutor, defeated Hyde-Smith, who had President Donald Trump’s endorsement. The Associated Press declared him the winner after ballots were counted over an extended period. His win was viewed as a rebuke to Trump, whose party also lost races in several Republican-controlled states.
Campaign focused on representation
Colom campaigned on representing the entire state, which has deep racial divisions. He said the party must speak for rural, suburban and urban America, according to the Associated Press.
He also drew attention to economic discontent and Hyde-Smith’s campaign missteps. An advertisement criticizing her comments about high beef prices circulated widely. At a rally in Corinth, Mississippi, Colom spoke with Trump supporters, describing his priorities and hearing their concerns.
Support and voter turnout
Colom’s support was especially strong in the Mississippi Delta, where turnout rose in majority-Black counties. His victory is expected to influence Mississippi politics and the Democratic Party’s approach in the South.
Key points
- Scott Colom defeated incumbent Republican Cindy Hyde-Smith in Mississippi’s U.S. Senate race.
- The Associated Press called the contest for Colom after a prolonged ballot count.
- The Hill said Colom is Mississippi’s first elected Black senator since 1881 and its first Democrat since 1982.
- Strong turnout in majority-Black Delta counties helped Colom’s campaign.