Hyde-Smith faces challenge from Mike Espy (ex-Democratic congressman) and is one of 31 incumbents running to re-elect him in 2020. Espy has declined two invitations to debate and publicly criticised Hyde Smith for not accepting the same. Hyde-Smith’s campaign claims that she has been too busy with her duties as senator to schedule a debate. Espy claimed that Espy is trying make political hay. This article was not responded to by the Hyde-Smith campaign. According to Hyde-Smith’s campaign, “Corrupt Mike Espy wants to get all the attention he can for his failing campaign.” WJTV was informed by Hyde Smith in September. He was too corrupt to be in the Clinton Administration, and too liberal for Mississippi. Voters in Mississippi know that Cindy Hyde Smith is a bright future and don’t want to revisit Mike Espy’s past scandals.” Mississippi political experts have concluded that Hyde Smith — who was known for making mistakes on the campaign trail — thinks she has a significant lead in the race and can ride President Donald Trump’s coattails. She is also laying low and refusing to give Espy any platform. The eight remaining incumbent U.S. senators that haven’t agreed to debate are most likely facing little-known, poorly-funded, or third-party challengers. One challenger to Republican Senator Tom Cotton in Arkansas is a libertarian. After reports that Jack Reed, a Democratic Senator from Rhode Island, was involved in a domestic disturbance in 2019, his own state party withdrew its endorsement. Espy and Hyde-Smith debated in 2018 when they were running for a special election to replace Thad Cochran who had resigned due to health reasons. The then-Gov appointed Hyde-Smith. Phil Bryant was appointed to replace Cochran during the interim period before the special elections. Now, she is vying to be elected for a full six year term. Espy, who won more than 46% in 2018, is challenging her. To support this important work, you can make a regular donation to the Spring Member Drive today.