JACKSON, Miss. (AP) - Two candidates apiece are running for the Republican and Democratic nominations for Mississippi secretary of state. The winners of the Aug. 6 primaries will advance to the Nov. 5 general election to face each other:
DEMOCRATS
- Johnny DuPree, 65, of Hattiesburg.
Political Experience: mayor of Hattiesburg for 16 years, Forrest County supervisor for 10 years, Hattiesburg school board member for 5 years, unsuccessful Democratic nominee for governor in 2011.
Professional Experience: real estate agent, consultant, trucking firm owner, adjunct professor.
- Maryra Hunt Hodges, 41, of Lexington.
Political Experience: none.
Professional Experience: associate’s degree in medical billing and coding.
REPUBLICANS
- Sam Britton, 62, of Laurel.
Political Experience: Has served one term on the Mississippi Public Service Commission representing the state’s Southern District. Ran unsuccessfully for a state House seat as a Republican in 1999, as a Democrat in 2003, and in a nonpartisan special election in 2005.
Professional Experience: Accountant and auditor who consulted on buying, selling and raising money for businesses.
- Michael Watson, 41, of Hurley.
Political Experience: Has served three terms in the Mississippi state Senate.
Professional Experience: Lawyer.
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