Analysis: Miss. GOP boasting full statewide slate
With the passing of the qualifying deadline, Mississippi Republicans are fielding a full slate of candidates for statewide office, just as they have in election cycles dating back to 2003.
Democrats dominated the state political scene for generations, but are fielding candidates this year in only five statewide races.
Mississippi Democratic Party chairman Jamie Franks says his party is rebuilding. Republican Party chairman Arnie Hederman says the GOP is the party of opportunity and growth.
History shows the GOP has generally fielded a growing number of candidates dating back to 1983. Republicans used to joke that their loyalists – including future governors Kirk Fordice and Haley Barbour – could all fit in a telephone booth.
AP
3/7/11
