Democrat Scott Colom Challenges Senator Hyde-Smith in Mississippi Race

Recent polling in Mississippi shows a surprising development in the Senate race as Democrat Scott Colom approaches incumbent Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith. A survey by Wedgewood Polls indicates Hyde-Smith leading with 52 percent to Colom’s 48 percent, within the poll’s 4.3-point margin of error.

The poll surveyed 511 likely voters between October 12 and 14. The competitive nature of the race prompted Sabato’s Crystal Ball to shift its rating from ‘Safe Republican’ to ‘Likely Republican’. This highlights increasing competition, despite Hyde-Smith’s continued advantage.

Crosstabs reveal a split among voters. Colom secured 91 percent backing from Black voters, and leads among voters aged 18 to 29 with 56 percent to Hyde-Smith’s 44 percent. Meanwhile, Hyde-Smith received 78 percent support from white voters and 88 percent from those recalling voting for Trump in 2024. Black voters comprised 37 percent of the weighted sample.

Wedgewood Polls independently designed and funded the survey. It used an online panel, screening participants for voter registration and likelihood to vote, and weighted responses by gender, age, race, ethnicity, and education. Subgroup margins of error are higher.

The poll results suggest increasing Democratic interest in a traditionally Republican stronghold. Last month, The Wall Street Journal noted Democratic donors channeling funds toward the Mississippi race, eyeing it as a potential target.

The survey included only Hyde-Smith and Colom, though independent candidate Ty Pinkins is also on the November 3 ballot. The head-to-head results don’t fully capture the election landscape.

Colom’s victory would mark the first Democratic Senate win in Mississippi since 1982. While this poll suggests a possible opportunity for Democrats, a single poll within the margin of error doesn’t indicate a definitive trend.

This story is ongoing, with further updates to come.