Ballot review continues 3 months after Hattiesburg’s special mayoral election

Mayor Johnny DuPree
Mayor Johnny DuPree
Mayor Johnny DuPree

HATTIESBURG, Mississippi (AP) — Three months after Hattiesburg’s special election for mayor, Mississippi’s secretary of state is still going over copies of the applications, envelopes and absentee ballots from 10 of the city’s 14 precincts.

Deputy City Clerk Kermas Eaton tells The Hattiesburg American that he’s getting together copies for the remaining four precincts. He says the Secretary of State’s office will call when it’s ready to get them.

Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann requested the copies after people raised questions about incumbent Mayor Johnny DuPree’s 202-vote victory in the Sept. 24 election against challenger Dave Ware.

The review by Hosemann’s office won’t affect the outcome. But Hosemann has said any improprieties would be brought to light for correction and possible prosecution.