With the Democrat field set, it remains to be seen who shall survive the clash of the titans on the Republican side between State Auditor Phil Bryant and State Senator Charlie Ross. These two political heavyweights are set to square off in a battle royale to preside over the Mississippi Senate and become the heir apparent to term limited Governor Haley Barbour. Outgoing Lt. Governor Amy Tuck, has ceded the field of statewide politics to Bryant and Ross. She has wielded great independant power as presiding officer of the Senate and all three men seek to wield the gavel and the influence and advantage in the 2011 Governor’s race it provides.
Both candidates have advantages. State Senator Ross, has more ideological affinity with the Governor as a staunch economic conservative opposed to general tax increases and key advocate and author of tort reform. His perch in the Senate gives him entree’ and advantage into leading the senate should he win. Most of his colleagues have signaled their support and his base in Rankin County, a key GOP stronghold, is crucial.
Auditor Phil Bryant, on the other hand, is the leading social conservative serving in statewide office. Having that key religious conservative base firmly in his camp and his experience running statewide also gives him important advantages as well going forward in winning a GOP Primary known for low turnout. Committed and energized followers are key and religious conservatives are known for their fervor.
I look forward to the coming weeks and months as this race develops.
Hiram's Ghost 