Congressman Thompson Congratulates Scott Colom on Historic Victory

Washington, D.C. –  Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) issued the following statement on Senator-elect Scott Colom’s historic election to the United States Senate:

“I am incredibly proud of Senator-elect Scott Colom and his historic victory. Having known Scott for many years, it has been a pleasure to watch him grow into the leader he is today. His campaign brought together Mississippians from every walk of life—young and old, Black and white, rural and urban—in a way I have never witnessed in more than 50 years of public service. This victory demonstrates the power of grassroots organizing and what can be accomplished when people come together for a common purpose.”

“My relationship with Scott dates back to his participation in the Mississippi Black Leadership Institute, which I helped establish in partnership with the NAACP to develop the next generation of public servants. As one of the program's first graduates, Scott demonstrated the leadership and commitment to public service that would later define his career. Recognizing that potential, I encouraged him to run for District Attorney of Mississippi's 16th Judicial District, where he defeated a 28-year incumbent and went on to serve three terms.

“Having witnessed Scott's leadership firsthand, I had every confidence in his ability to serve as a federal judge when I recommended him to President Joe Biden for nomination in 2022. Former Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith’s decision to block his nomination by withholding her blue slip was disappointing, but it did not lessen my confidence in him or his commitment to serving Mississippi. To see him now elected to the very Senate where his nomination was blocked is especially meaningful and a testament to his perseverance and the trust Mississippians have placed in his leadership.”

“Scott has the experience, character, and determination to be an effective advocate for Mississippi. Throughout my career, I have fought to make sure those at the bottom have an opportunity to move up, and I know he shares that commitment. Having another Mississippi Democrat alongside me in Congress who understands the needs of Mississippians means a great deal. Together, we will fight to improve access to health care, strengthen public education, expand economic opportunities, and ensure our rural and underserved communities are not left behind.

“I look forward to working with Senator-elect Colom and am pleased to welcome him to the Mississippi Congressional Delegation.”