“A rich message, but a poor campaign”: How Scott Colom beat the odds in Mississippi

On November 11, 2026, Mississippi's Senate race was officially called in favor of Democrat Scott Colom, making him the first Black person to represent the state in the US Senate since Reconstruction. This historic victory was a long time coming for many Black Democrats, including Rep. Bennie Thompson, who has represented Mississippi's majority-Black Second Congressional District since 1993.

Thompson's father was never able to cast a vote due to Jim Crow laws, and Thompson himself witnessed firsthand the struggles of his community under segregation.

Growing up in Mississippi, Thompson learned about the limitations placed on Black citizens, from segregated schools and swimming pools to the denial of voting rights for Black families. It was through his involvement in civil rights activism, including his work on Fannie Lou Hamer's campaign for Congress, that Thompson understood the power of political participation.

Reflecting on Colom's victory, Thompson noted that the candidate's determination and ability to connect with people played a significant role. Despite facing opposition from national Democratic leaders, Colom managed to win in a majority-white district by presenting a compelling message. Thompson called this a "rich message" but lamented the lack of support for Colom's campaign, describing it as "a poor campaign."