Mississippi Democrats are holding off on announcing candidates for the 2027 statewide elections, focusing instead on the upcoming midterm contests, according to party Chairman Cheikh Taylor.
Taylor, who also serves in the Mississippi House of Representatives, said the party aims to concentrate on the 2026 midterms, which he views as an opportunity to challenge Republican dominance in the state. “Let’s get out of the midterms first before start going through the minutiae of these names,” he said during an interview on Mornings with Richard Cross.
He expressed confidence that Congressman Bennie Thompson will secure an 18th term representing District 2 and indicated optimism about flipping other races, including a possible challenge to U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith by District Attorney Scott Colom of Lowndes County.
Taylor and the Mississippi Democratic Party are also focused on supporting Democratic candidates in U.S. House races, including civil rights attorney Cliff Johnson challenging Republican Trent Kelly in District 1, former baseball player Michael Chiaradio aiming to unseat Michael Guest in District 3, and state Rep. Jeffrey Hulum III seeking to defeat Mike Ezell in District 4.
While Republicans have moved early with campaigns for the 2027 gubernatorial race—featuring candidates like Attorney General Lynn Fitch, former House Speaker Philip Gunn, and Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson—the Democrats are remaining reserved. Taylor said the party plans to announce its candidates for state offices after the midterm elections, with a mix of experienced and emerging leaders.
Despite Republican dominance in recent elections, Taylor remains hopeful that Mississippi voters will begin shifting toward Democratic candidates, asserting that his party represents the best interests of the state’s residents. “We’re ready. We’re locked and loaded. We know we’re on the right side of the policies that really affect everyday Mississippians,” he said.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
