CL – Bryant coasts in governor’s race

Bryant coasts in governor’s race

Mississippians have elected Republican Phil Bryant as the state’s 64th governor.

“What an amazing ride this has been,” said Bryant, a Brandon resident who is finishing his first term as lieutenant governor, shortly after he was announced the winner Tuesday night.

As election results came in, Bryant, 56, took an early lead over Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree, 57, solidifying the GOP’s hold on the Mississippi Governor’s Mansion for at least four more years.

Republicans have won the governor’s race in five of the past six elections, but this is the first time two Republican governors have been elected back-to-back in Mississippi in modern times.

Clarion Ledger
10/9/11