Cook Political Report Reframes Southern Senate Races as Democrats Surge in Mississippi Ads
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The Cook Political Report shifted the Mississippi and South Carolina Senate contests in ways that reflect a tougher landscape for Republicans, while Democrats launched a $1.2 million Mississippi ad buy against Cindy Hyde-Smith and mega-donors poured unprecedented sums into the midterm fight.
The nonpartisan Cook Political Report adjusted its outlook for two Southern Senate contests, moving Mississippi to a "likely Republican" rating and South Carolina to "lean Republican" from more favorable Republican categories. The shift reflects assessments of candidate quality and broader electoral dynamics, but it also underscores how brittle the GOP’s hold on these races has become.
Democratic strategists responded with a $1.2 million television advertising buy in Mississippi targeting incumbent Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith. The ad, placed by the Senate Majority PAC, contrasts Democratic nominee Scott Colom’s prosecutorial background with Hyde-Smith’s record, accusing the incumbent of ineffectiveness and self-enrichment.
In South Carolina, Democrat Annie Andrews is challenging appointed Senator Darline Graham, who succeeded her late brother Lindsey Graham earlier this year.
The changes come as both parties intensify fundraising, with giant checks and political money shaping the battlefield. Billionaire donor Mike Bloomberg has contributed more than $80 million to Democratic efforts, including $16 million to the House Majority PAC and $24 million to Everytown for Gun Safety. Bloomberg’s adviser, Howard Wolfson, noted that a larger House margin would benefit Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Republican fundraising is led by President Donald Trump, who confirmed a total commitment of over $400 million to Republican midterm activities, including $300 million already spent on advertising, voter outreach, and rallies. Trump said the spending also supports "Election Integrity" measures.
"It is my Great Honor to do so on behalf of the Republican Party," Trump posted on social media.
The campaign finance landscape also features Elon Musk, whose $369 million contribution to Republican candidates makes him the largest solo donor in modern U.S. election history.
Separately, Trump’s administration announced ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure the release of Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old American detained in Russia since 2022. Trump said he has spoken with President Vladimir Putin about Hubbard’s case and hopes for his return.
"I’ve been talking to President Putin about Mr. Hubbard. I’ve asked him to release him. We’ll see what happens," Trump said in the Oval Office.
Analyst Jessica Taylor of Cook attributed the Senate rating adjustments to expanding Democratic competitiveness in traditionally red states, noting that national economic concerns and geopolitical tensions are creating headwinds for Republicans.
The evolving race ratings and heightened spending underscore the intensifying contest for control of Congress in the 2025 midterm elections.