Mississippi Senate Tally: Counties finalize affidavit ballot reviews by Friday deadline
Election officials in Hinds and Rankin counties are processing over 14,000 affidavit ballots statewide, with resolution committees deciding on acceptance rates.
By Robert Ward ·
Mississippi election officials have until Friday to submit certified results for the U.S. Senate race, as they finalize reviews of affidavit ballots. The deadline falls on November 13, 2026, creating a tight window for counties to complete their processing.
Statewide, officials have processed more than 14,000 affidavit ballots. Approximately 77 percent of these ballots have been accepted so far. These figures represent a portion of the total vote count that remains under scrutiny in the close race.
In Hinds County, election commissioners are reviewing ballots in cubicles under the observation of the public. Brenda Scott, an observer, described the experience as nervous but reassuring. She stated that being present allows her to see the process directly. "Well, it’s kind of nervous and you kind of want to see, like be a fly on the wall to see. I’m just nervous," Scott said. She added that the tension persists until the work is finished.
Hinds County District 1 Election Commissioner Kidada Brown noted the added pressure of the situation. Brown emphasized that the integrity of the process takes precedence over speed. "This matter is important, but the integrity of this matter is more important," Brown said. The county's resolution committee is expected to determine on Wednesday whether to accept or reject the pending affidavit ballots.
Rankin County officials reported that their review process is further along than in neighboring districts. Circuit Clerk Michelle Adcock said her team is working quickly but prioritizing thoroughness. Adcock stated that commissioners aim to finish by tomorrow night at 5:00 p.m., ahead of the Friday deadline. Her office has received a high volume of calls from the public seeking information on affidavit ballots. "We’ve had a outcry from the public wanting to know about these affidavit ballots," Adcock said.
Adcock explained that affidavit ballots are a standard component of election processing and that the current volume is slightly higher than in 2024. She noted that accepted affidavit ballots in Rankin County have not been opened. Only the bipartisan resolution committee will open them. "So we don’t know if it’s a Republican ballot, Democrat ballot. All we have is a name where they live," Adcock said.
