Editorial: Republican Seat

Clarion Ledger: Pickering's seat: Can Democrat win?: "Can the Democrats use this to advance their numbers in both chambers? Four Republicans quickly announced their candidacy for Pickering's seat: State Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon, David Landrum of Madison County, John Rounsaville of Madison and Gregg Harper of Pearl. Harper is well-respected among old line Rankin County Republicans. Landrum's wealth makes him a player in a short, media-intensive campaign. Ross is fresh from a name-ID-building GOP primary for lieutenant governor, making him a strong candidate. Rounsaville's Mississippi State University connections and as a former U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development state director should help him, but finding campaign funds is his immediate challenge. But the absence of Democrats lining up for the job is noticeable - and that's for a reason. Can a Democrat win in a district that concentrates minority votes in the oddly shaped 2nd District?"