Sam Begley, an attorney in Jackson, is a long-time Democratic voter and operative. He said that Sherman was violating the constitution of the state Democratic Party. According to voting records, Sherman, a venture capitalist, recently resided in California. He is also the husband of Sela Ward, Mississippi actress. Begley asserts that Sherman is not currently residing in the state. Federal campaign finance records also show that Sherman made the largest individual donation to Wicker in 2017. This was in addition to previous donations to U.S. attorney general Jeff Sessions and ex-Mississippi Sen. Trent Lott, both Republicans. Begley wrote in the petition to the executive committee that donating less than one year prior to his candidacy to another party official directly violates the constitution of the state Democratic Party. Begley stated to Mississippi Today that he was interested in the outcome of both Senate races. “We must have strong candidates in both the Senate and House races. Sherman’s candidacy was what I was concerned about since he appears to be spending money.” Sherman campaign didn’t immediately respond to questions regarding the petition. It is not clear how fast the party officials will respond to the petition. Wicker, who is facing one Republican primary challenger without any political experience, has been in the seat since 2008. In the primary on June 5, six Democrats will be competing, including Sherman.