Hinds GOP leader helping Dem senator with recount

The Clarion-Ledger, 8/23/7

A prominent Republican has been on the Gulf Coast helping Democratic state Sen. Scottie Cuevas prepare for a possible challenge of a primary in which Cuevas’ opponent was declared the winner by 36 votes.

The actions by Hinds County GOP chairman Pete Perry demonstrate the importance to Gov. Haley Barbour of holding onto an ally in the 52-member state Senate, where Republicans hold a slim majority and often rely on Cuevas and other conservative Democrats to push the Republican governor’s agenda.

Perry’s son, Jim, is Barbour’s policy director.