Video Catches Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith Making A Comment That’s Causing Controversy

TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) – Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith is facing backlash after a video captures her making a comment that’s causing controversy.

The video was posted to Twitter Sunday morning and captures her allegedly saying, “If he invited me to a public hanging, I’d be on the front row.”

The statement is in reference to a cattle rancher giving her his support.

These comments were made at a campaign rally in Tupelo, on November 2nd.

Senator Smith released a statement Sunday afternoon responding to the video.

“In a comment on November 2nd, I referred to accepting an invitation to a speaking engagement. In referencing the one who invited me, I used an exaggerated expression of regard, and any attempt to turn this into a negative connotation is ridiculous.”

Opponent Mike Espy released a statement in response to Smith’s comments.

“Cindy Hyde-Smith’s comments are reprehensible. They have no place in our political discourse, in Mississippi, or our country. We need leaders, not dividers, and her words show that she lacks the understanding and judgement to represent the people of our state.”

Runoff elections for the seat will be held November 27th.