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Shuwaski Young running as Republican for Secretary of State in 2027. What to know
Shuwaski Young, who ran as a Democrat in 2023 for the Mississippi Secretary of State's Office, announced he is running again for the position in the 2027 statewide elections.
Only this time he will be running as a Republican, which grows the field of conservatives vying for the office to at least three.
Young told the Clarion Ledger on Monday, June 30, that after months of separation from the Democratic Party, he feels the GOP best reflects his views and politics. Young officially left the Democratic Party in October 2024.
"This campaign is not about politics," Young said. "It's about purpose. And I'm running for secretary of state because I believe that Mississippi is ready for continued, strong, authentic conservative leadership, and leadership that reflects the values of Mississippi."
If Young were to win the race, he would be the first Black secretary of state or elected statewide office holder since Reconstruction when James Hill held the position until 1878.
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Young first ran unsuccessfully for Congress in 2022, and in 2023 he ran as a Democrat against current Secretary of State Michael Watson. However, Young backed out of the race for medical issues that he told the Clarion Ledger have since been totally resolved.
Young was replaced in the 2023 race by Ty Pinkins, who lost to Watson. Pinkins has also left the Democratic Party and is now running for U.S. Senate as an independent agains incumbent Republican U.S. Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith.
The other candidates who have announced interest in running for secretary of state are state Sens. Joel Carter and Jeff Tate.
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As for Watson, he could run again for his current seat, but it has been said he is considering to run for lieutenant governor or governor in 2027. He has made no announcements so far.
Grant McLaughlin covers the Legislature and state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@ or 972-571-2335.
This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Former Democrat announces bid MS Secretary of State as a Republican
