Republicans Know Tate Reeves Has A Likability Problem

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November 3, 2023                 

Republicans Know Tate Reeves Has A Likability Problem

Jackson, MS – Last month, Republican operatives began ringing the alarm bells on Tate Reeves’ dwindling chances of reelection. And after this week’s debate, those alarms got even louder, with more Republicans continuing to voice their concerns about Reeves’ likability.

During his appearance on The Gallo Show, Republican State House Speaker Philip Gunn said, “We’re not electing a homecoming queen here. This is not…who do we like the best?” Columnist Sid Salter also said, “I think it’s easy to get wrapped up in personalities and who’s most likable.” They know that the more people see of Tate Reeves, the less that they like him.

Republicans clearly know Tate lost the debate and are panicking. Their comments come after Wednesday’s debate, in which Republicans called Brandon Presley “impressive” and a “skillful debater.” Supertalk’s Caleb Salers also discussed Tate Reeves’ lackluster performance, saying he didn’t seem “as comfortable” and wanted to “get this debate over with.”

Reeves had a lackluster performance against nominal candidates in the Republican gubernatorial primary, particularly on the Gulf Coast. Tate Reeves underperformed his statewide total, falling under 75 percent in Harrison County, Hancock County, Pearl River County, Jackson County, and George County. More than 1 in 4 Republicans want another candidate instead of Tate Reeves after 20 years in statewide office. A Mississippi Today poll found that 21% of Republican primary voters backed Brandon Presley over Reeves. 

“Republicans are panicking because they know Tate Reeves is the most unfavorable governor in recent history,” said Mississippi Democratic Party Chairman, Cheikh Taylor. “With four days to go, Republicans should be deeply worried because Democrats, Republicans, and Independents are fired up to have a governor like Brandon Presley, who will tackle corruption, expand Medicaid, and cut the grocery tax and car tag fees in half.”

See more of the comments below:

“Tate Reeves we know is a bit more of a policy guy, an analytical guy. Not that level of retail politician. Doesn’t seem as comfortable on the stump.” [Ashley Edwards, Middays with Gerard Gibert]

“Brandon Presley seemed more polished…He just seemed more comfortable right there on the stage…Whereas Tate Reeves kind of went over his talking points…but he didn’t seem as comfortable. He seemed like he was like, ‘let’s get this debate over with.’” [Caleb Salers, Middays with Gerard Gibert]

"Good policies lead to good results, which is my concern when we look and say, 'Well my policies don't match up with a particular candidate but I think I'm going to vote for him,’ or ‘I'm just not going to vote for the other guy whose policies I agree with.' Sometimes we get so caught up in personality." [State Senator Daniel Sparks, Middays with Gerard Gibert]

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About Mississippi Democratic Party:

The Mississippi Democratic Party is dedicated to advancing progressive values, fostering inclusive policies, and promoting equal representation for all Mississippians. As the state's leading Democratic organization, we work tirelessly to build a strong and diverse coalition, advocate for meaningful change, and support Democratic candidates who champion social justice, economic fairness, and access to quality healthcare and education. Together, we strive to create a brighter future for Mississippi by ensuring that every voice is heard and every vote counts.