Scott Colom could become Mississippi's first Black senator since Reconstruction as vote count continues

Democrat Scott Colom could become Mississippi's first Black U.S. senator since Reconstruction, but the race remains uncalled as counties tally absentee and affidavit ballots. The outcome hinges on a lengthy verification process across all 82 counties. Colom, a local prosecutor, faces Republican incumbent Cindy Hyde-Smith in a tight contest. Ballots received by Tuesday and affidavit ballot issues resolved by then will be counted, with counties certifying results by Friday. Hyde-Smith has not appeared publicly since election night. Democrats already control the Senate, so the result won't shift Washington's balance of power. However, a Colom win would mark a historic change in a state where nearly 40% of residents are Black but white conservatives have dominated representation for generations.