Collier, Blanton head to runoff; Bentz nominated

Collier, Blanton head to runoff; Bentz nominated

Incumbent Leonard Bentz will be the Republican nominee for southern district public service commissioner on the November ballot.

In Tuesday’s Republican primary, Bentz defeated challenger Travis Rose.

Bentz earned 59,466 votes – or 56 percent – compared to Rose’s 47,556 votes – 44 percent – with 88 percent of precincts reporting.

He will face the winner of an Aug. 23 runoff between Democrats Mike Collier and Tom Blanton.

Collier earned 29,212 votes – or 38 percent – to Blanton’s 25,823 votes – 34 percent – with 88 percent of precincts reporting.

Trailing in the Democratic primary was James Buckhaults with 21,231 votes – or 28 percent.

Hattiesburg American
8/2/11