The Untapped Power in Mississippi: Democrats Must Turn the Delta Blue

Despite its deep-red reputation, there is a compelling and urgent case for Democrats to concentrate resources, energy, and strategy on turning Mississippi blue. The state’s demographics, historical background, and recent electoral trends all suggest that the opportunity is real.

First, Mississippi’s population offers a bright starting point: it has one of the highest proportions of Black residents of any U.S. state at nearly 39 %.  Given that African American voters overwhelmingly support Democrats nationally and are a critical part of the Democratic coalition, the base is already present. Mobilizing this base more fully in Mississippi could raise turnout and change the conversation.

Second, although Mississippi has consistently voted Republican in presidential elections that very fact underscores the scale of the opportunity: it’s a state long neglected by Democrats, meaning the playing field is wide open. The state party itself has acknowledged the need to rebuild and refocus on its Black-based coalition. In 2023, the Democratic gubernatorial candidate came within about three percentage points of winning in what had been considered a write-off state with minimal outside help.

Third, the strategic value of winning Mississippi is higher than many realize. As population and electoral shifts continue, the party that ignores the South risks being locked out of power. Building a durable infrastructure in places like Mississippi is a smart long-term investment.

Finally, focusing on Mississippi means building a model of grassroots engagement, voter turnout, and inclusive coalition-building in an environment where the cost of entry may be lower and the upside potentially higher. Democrats who pour attention into the state can help rebuild trust among neglected communities, show meaningful local policy wins, and create a growth path that could ripple outward.

Yes, Mississippi is a red state. But that very redness makes it ripe for disruption. With its significant Black population, historic neglect by national Democrats, and clear evidence of recent competitiveness, the state presents a blue frontier worth serious investment. If Democrats want to expand beyond traditional swing zones and build a sustainable map for the future, winning Mississippi shouldn’t be seen as a fantasy it should be seen as a necessary goal.