In Mississippi's gubernatorial race, Republican Gov. Tate Reeves secured a second term,
defeating his Democratic opponent, Brandon Presley, despite a closely contested campaign.
Reeves emphasized his achievements in job creation, low unemployment, and educational improvements
portraying Presley as a liberal candidate backed by out-of-state donors.
Presley, a state utility regulator and relative of Elvis Presley, criticized Reeves for refusing to expand Medicaid and highlighted issues of government corruption and mismanagement.
The election was marred by voting issues, with polling places in the state's largest county experiencing ballot shortages and long lines.
Hinds County election commissioners were criticized for underestimating turnout and failing to provide an adequate number of ballots, leading to frustration among voters.
Reeves, who previously served as state treasurer and lieutenant governor, had a financial advantage throughout the campaign,
while Presley raised substantial funds and emphasized issues such as Medicaid expansion and government transparency.
In other election results, Republican Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann secured a second term,
defeating a Democratic challenger, D. Ryan Grover, while Republican Attorney General Lynn Fitch won re-election, having led efforts to challenge abortion access.
The victories for Republicans reaffirmed the party's dominance in Mississippi,
where they have held the governorship and all statewide offices for the past two decades.