DNC Chair Tom Perez released the following statement:

“Mike Espy fought his heart out. He led with his values and never gave in to the politics of fear and division. And I couldn’t be prouder of him and his incredible campaign. Thanks to his staff, volunteers, voters, and the Mississippi Democratic Party, we came closer to victory than many thought was possible. In the face of his opponent’s disastrous agenda and disgraceful dog-whistle politics, Mike inspired hundreds of thousands of voters across Mississippi to make their voices heard. And I know Democrats like Mike will continue fighting to make Mississippi a land of opportunity for all of its citizens, and to make sure our leaders reflect the diversity of our nation.”