Columbus native Scott Colom wins U.S. Senate race in historic fashion

COLUMBUS, Miss. – The race has been called, and Columbus native Scott Colom will soon take his seat in the senate after a historical victory.

Last week 2 things were true: Mississippi hadn’t had a democratic senator since 1989, or a black senator since the reconstruction era. Scott Colom has changed both those narratives. The new senator elect pushed a remarkable campaign that gave Mississippi a ton of national attention, even drawing attention away from states like Texas that many saw as one of the bigger battlegrounds. Mississippi University for Women political science professor Brian Anderson spoke on Colom’s campaign.

“He appealed to people on the issues, in practical terms, in a way that was very relatable,” said Anderson. “And if he can continue that as a sitting senator, I think he will make a big difference within his party, and in the institution.”

Colom’s campaign pushed a laser focus on affordability and healthcare, which was the attraction to many voters. The competitiveness in this senate race excited many as it’s seen as a chance to reset Mississippi politics after decades of reaffirmations of a conservative style.

There’s plenty of happy people in the state now, but nobody is happier than the Columbus community and Lowndes County. Lowndes County District 5 Supervisor Leroy Brooks called this election the 8th wonder of the world, and one of the greatest achievements that he’s seen in politics since President Obama’s election.

“He’s a homegrown boy,” said Brooks. “His family live here. Everybody pretty much knows his family. He went to public schools here, played basketball, I’ve played golf with him, interacting with him. You don’t see that often. You don’t get to see your homeboy elevated like that and to turn an election around. It’s one of the greatest things that’s probably ever happened to our community.”

Scott Colom will officially take his seat in the U.S. Senate January 3rd.