Mississippi Supreme Court Race Heads to Runoff Amid Partisan Divides
Mississippi’s Supreme Court race has turned partisan, highlighting deep divides despite the court’s nonpartisan designation. The runoff, set for Tuesday, follows a closely contested race where Democratic strongholds favored incumbent Judge Kitchens, while Republican areas supported challenger Branning. This pattern mirrors Kitchens’ re-election in 2016 when he garnered support from Democratic regions.
Branning, a self-identified "constitutional conservative," has criticized "liberal activists" in the judiciary and enjoys the backing of the state Republican Party. Conversely, Kitchens has drawn attention for his dissenting opinions in high-profile death row cases, arguing for individuals who have faced wrongful convictions, earning him support from the Southern Poverty Law Center’s Action Fund.
Financially, Branning has outpaced Kitchens since announcing her campaign; her viability reinforced by a substantial $250,000 personal loan. The backing of the Republican Party has further solidified her position.
The upcoming runoff reflects significant turnout patterns in the state, particularly in the Central District, synonymous with the Democratic vote. Despite Mississippi’s Republican leanings in statewide elections, Kitchens concentrated his efforts on the Democratic-heavy areas to unearth additional support.
Key counties, like Madison and Warren, hang in the balance as battlegrounds, with Kitchens needing to replicate the success he had in 2016 to secure victory. Recent trends show Branning gaining traction in areas traditionally held by Kitchens, raising the stakes for both candidates.
Voters from the initial Nov. 5 election have the opportunity to reshape the judicial landscape in the runoff. With the outcome potentially shaping Mississippi’s legal framework, all eyes will be on the results late Tuesday night. The Associated Press will report and declare winners as circumstances unfold, committed to delivering accurate and timely updates.
Source
Photo credit www.ajc.com
