Phil Bryant wins Mississippi gubernatorial election

Posted by Rachel Weinerat 10:28 PM ET, 11/08/2011

Republican Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant cruised to victory in Mississippi’s gubernatorial election, defeating Democratic Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree. AP called the race with about half of precincts in and Bryant leading DuPree 59 percent to 41 percent.

While waiting for an open polling booth, Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant, left, speaks with Peggy Young, the precinct manager Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2011 in a Brandon, Miss., polling station. (Rogelio V. Solis - AP)

Bryant will replace Gov. Haley Barbour (R), who is stepping down after two terms.

Bryant dramatically outraised DuPree, $4.3 million to $1.2 million.

DuPree made history as the first black major party candidate for governor since Reconstruction. But he could not overcome the sharp Republican shift in the South over the past decade, along with dissatisfaction with President Obama.

Republicans are also aiming to take over the state House, which Democrats currently control with a 68 to 54 majority, and increase the GOP majority in the state Senate. If they succeed, it will pave the way for a completely Republican-controlled redistricting process in the state.

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q= ... 39WwvF6Kqw