Democrat Challenges Republican Lead in Mississippi Senate Race

A Democrat is posing a potential upset in traditionally Republican-dominated Mississippi. A recent poll shows Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith only four points ahead of her challenger Scott Colom.

The survey by Wedgewood Polls indicates Hyde-Smith holding 52 percent over Colom’s 48 percent, but this is within the poll’s 4.3-point margin of error. The poll was conducted with 511 likely voters from October 12 to 14.

The race gained attention after Sabato’s Crystal Ball adjusted its rating from “Safe Republican” to “Likely Republican.” This change signals increased competitiveness in the race, though Hyde-Smith remains the favorite.

The poll’s detailed breakdown shows a split electorate. Colom has the backing of 91 percent of Black voters and leads among individuals aged 18 to 29 with 56 percent to 44 percent. Hyde-Smith, however, receives 78 percent support from white voters and 88 percent from voters who supported Donald Trump in 2024. Black voters make up 37 percent of the survey’s weighted sample.

Wedgewood Polls designed and funded the survey independently. Respondents were selected through an online panel, with screening for registration and voting likelihood. The responses were weighted by gender, age, race, ethnicity, and education. Subgroup margins are larger.

These results underscore a rising Democratic interest in Mississippi, where Republicans have traditionally held the Senate seat. Last month, The Wall Street Journal reported that Democratic donors are channeling funds towards this race, viewing Mississippi as a viable target.

However, the poll only compared Hyde-Smith and Colom, overlooking independent candidate Ty Pinkins, who is also on the November 3 ballot. This omission leaves the poll incomplete regarding the overall contest.

If Colom succeeds, he would become Mississippi’s first Democratic senator elected since 1982. The race presents an unlikely opportunity for Democrats, but a single poll within the margin of error does not signify a definitive trend.

This story is developing, with more updates expected.