AP Election Brief | What to expect in Mississippi’s general election

WASHINGTON — Tuesday is Election Day in Mississippi, and Republican Gov. Tate Reeves’ bid for a second term tops the list of statewide and local contests that voters will decide.

Reeves, who was first elected in 2019 after serving two terms as lieutenant governor, faces a challenge from Democrat Brandon Presley, a state utility regulator and cousin of rock ’n’ roll legend Elvis Presley. Reeves was elected in 2019 with 52% of the vote, a surprisingly narrow margin in a reliably Republican state.

Presley has stayed competitive in the race in terms of campaign cash. With help from a sizable cash infusion from the national party, he brought in more money to his campaign than Reeves and has essentially matched him in spending. However, the incumbent entered the final stretch of the campaign with more money in the bank.

Democrats had a stranglehold on the Mississippi governorship for almost all of the 20th century, but Republicans have controlled the office for the last 20 years.

Also on the ballot is the race for lieutenant governor, with Republican incumbent Delbert Hosemann facing Democrat D. Ryan Grover. In August, Hosemann survived a bitter primary challenge from state Sen. Chris McDaniel.

State Senate and House seats are also up on Tuesday, but Republicans enjoy a solid majority in both chambers.

Here’s a look at what to expect on election night:

ELECTION DAY

Mississippi will hold its general election on Tuesday. Polls close statewide at 7 p.m. local time (CT), which is 8 p.m. ET.

WHAT’S ON THE BALLOT?

The Associated Press will provide coverage for 55 races in Mississippi: governor, lieutenant governor, treasurer, attorney general, secretary of state, auditor, agriculture commissioner, insurance commissioner, public service…