Mississippi Republican Party Chairman Mike Hurst is calling for federal law enforcement to investigate a social media video released by Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Scott Colom, alleging that Colom had someone impersonate the voice of Republican U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith.
In a statement, Hurst described the video as “shocking and deeply disturbing,” and said it appeared to be a violation of federal criminal law.
“Today, I am calling upon federal law enforcement to investigate the shocking and deeply disturbing actions by a Democratic candidate who has stooped so low as to impersonate the voice of a sitting United States Senator for his personal benefit and gain,” Hurst said. “Not only is this shameful and dishonest, it appears to be a direct violation of federal criminal law. Such reckless behavior imperils the very foundation of our Republic, which depends on truth, integrity, and trust in our democratic process.”
Hurst added that voters “deserve leaders who are honest, honor the law, and respect the institutions of our government, not those who undermine them through deceit and trickery for their own benefit.”
Colom, who recently announced his Senate campaign, has not publicly responded to the allegation. Shortly after his campaign launch, Democratic candidate Ty Pinkins also entered the race, challenging other contenders to participate in six debates ahead of the election.
The controversy comes as the 2026 Senate race begins to take shape in Mississippi, where Hyde-Smith is seeking reelection and Democrats are aiming to mount a competitive challenge.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates and high school football play-by-play on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
