Colom’s win is part of a larger Democratic wave in the 2026 midterm elections, in which the party has taken control of both the House and the Senate. This gives Democrats the power to block legislation, investigate the Trump administration, and stop Trump’s judicial and executive appointments. The Senate is now projected to be split 55-44 in favor of Democrats, with one race in Alaska still undecided.

Colom ran a campaign focused on economic frustrations and racial representation, capitalizing on Mississippi’s large Black population and Hyde-Smith’s missteps. He criticized Trump’s policies, including the war in Iran and tariffs, and used a widely circulated ad that mocked Hyde-Smith’s comment about consumers choosing other proteins instead of beef. “Pick another protein? I’d rather pick another senator instead,” was the slogan. Colom also campaigned in all 82 counties and was supported by prominent Black Democratic senators like Raphael Warnock and Cory Booker.

Hyde-Smith, 67, conceded the race in a video posted online, stating, “While this is not the outcome we worked for or hoped for, I respect the decision of Mississippi voters.” She had led in polls and received support from President Trump, who campaigned for her in Mississippi. However, her campaign was criticized for a lack of public appearances and for attacking Colom as a puppet of billionaire George Soros.

Colom delivered a victory speech at Tougaloo College, where he thanked his supporters and emphasized the role of faith and community in Mississippi. “There were times that I couldn’t get donors to answer the phone,” he said. “They did not believe a moment like this was possible. But I kept the faith.” The NAACP in Jackson erupted in applause and celebration when the result was announced. “This is purely the work of particularly the black community,” said Leon Russell, chairman of the NAACP board.

The last Black person elected to the U.S. Senate from Mississippi was Blanche Bruce in 1874, during the Reconstruction era. Colom’s victory breaks a 140-year streak of Republican dominance in the state’s Senate seat and marks the first Democratic win since 1982.

Democratic leaders hailed Colom’s win as a turning point. Senate leader Chuck Schumer said, “Scott Colom is the only person who could’ve gotten this done,” and former President Bill Clinton, who campaigned with Colom, praised him for believing in Mississippi’s people. The victory is seen as a validation of Democrats’ strategy to expand their appeal in the South.