House speaker: Long battle brewing

The Clarion-Ledger Editorial, 9/2/7

One of the most important campaigns that will be decided in Mississippi politics this fall has already attracted more than $500,000 in campaign contributions, but state voters can’t vote directly in the outcome of the race.

During the next few months – while many of them are still seeking general election victories for their own legislative seats – the membership of the Mississippi House of Representatives will choose a House speaker. That choice is at least as significant as the outcome of races for governor and lieutenant governor, who are elected by the entire voting public statewide.