Roger Wicker, Tupelo, and Cindy Hyde Smith, Brookhaven, will both be on the November ballot in two separate Senate races. They claim that their commitments in Washington, D.C. make it difficult for them to have time for debates. Governor Hyde-Smith appointed Hyde-Smith as the former state commissioner for agriculture and commerce. Phil Bryant will replace Thad Cochran, a long-standing senator who resigned in March due to health reasons. In the November election, she will be facing former U.S. Rep. Mike Espy (a Democrat), state Sen. Chris McDaniel (R-Ellisville) and Gautier Democrat Tobey Bartee (Gautier Democrat). McDaniel, as well as Espy, both claim they have agreed to debates. Melissa Scallan, Hyde-Smith’s spokeswoman, stated that the senator was performing the job in Washington, D.C., which she was appointed by Gov. Phil Bryant will represent the people of Mississippi. Donald Trump recently endorsed her, highlighting the fact that she is doing an excellent job. While we are open to discussing scheduling issues with other organizations, the dates cannot interfere with her primary responsibility of serving the people in Mississippi. “Sen. Hyde Smith is focused on her work working for the people in Mississippi and we aren’t going to allow Chris McDaniel’s grandstanding press release to dictate her schedule.” Trump will also hold a rally for Hyde Smith on September 14. Wicker has been also supported by the president. McDaniel recently sent an email stating that he was open to debates. Millsaps College and the Mississippi College School of Law have all proposed that debates be held. McDaniel stated that it was difficult to imagine how someone running for the U.S. Senate to represent Mississippi. The U.S. Senate used to be the world’s most deliberative and influential body. But, sadly, we have seen it before. “If Cindy Hyde Smith skips these deliberations, it sends a message that the so called elites are above accountability — they don’t need to answer to people.” Othor Cain, Espy spokesperson, said Espy had only accepted one invitation to debate and would be open to receiving other invitations. The incumbent senator, Wicker, will be challenged by David Baria (D-Bay St. Louis), in the state’s second Senate election. Justin Brassell, the campaign spokesperson, said that there is a possibility of a debate. Wicker is focused on his job. The Senate cancelled the August recess to allow for more work and confirmations. We have received very few invitations to debate that conflict with Washington’s voting schedule. “We haven’t decided on any number. It will depend on the availability and flexibility of those organizations who are interested in hosting it. Sen. Wicker is a respected figure and takes pride in stating his views on issues. Baria regretted that Wicker promised him he would debate when he first entered the race. Baria stated that the request he made was not a closed-ended one. “You pick a place. You pick a time. You choose a date, and I’ll be there.