Jackson Free Press

Although it doesn't exactly come as a shock that state Sen. Chris McDaniel has formed a new political-action committee, McDaniel is leaving everyone in suspense about what his next moves are.

Today, McDaniel officially announced the news that he teased earlier in the month: that he would form a PAC. He said in a press release that organizers of this group, the United Conservatives Fund, are "conservative thought-leaders, grassroots volunteers and community leaders from across the state."

McDaniel said in the release that following the Republican primary run-off for the U.S. Senate last year, conservatives are more ready for mobilization and action than ever. That race, which pitted McDaniel against long-term U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran, became one of the most closely watched congressional campaigns in the country, as well as one of the most controversial.

"I have the enviable position of having the best of the best thought-leaders in the state and across the country ready to devote their time, money and effort to do what is needed to be sure the truth of conservatism is never again misrepresented by the politically powerful like it was here," McDaniel said.

The primary drew criticism because of the fissures it created among Mississippi Republicans and because of the role that the traditionally Democratic-voting black community played. After the race went to a run-off, Cochran courted black voters who did not vote in the Democratic primary.

Since Cochran, who, as part of the new Republican majority in the Senate, now chairs the powerful Appropriations Committee, defeated him, McDaniel has become somewhat of a folk hero to right-wing conservatives, and his name has swirled as a possible Republican candidate for just about every statewide office.

Since the campaign ended, McDaniel has been mum about his plans for this election year but recently announced a statewide tour starting next week.

"I understand that my name has been mentioned as a possible candidate for a number of different offices, and I am considering those carefully with the counsel of my friends and family," he said in the release. "Whether I run for higher office or not, it makes little difference unless other conservatives are provided the resources and support to step up where they live."

Locally, McDaniel will appear Monday, Jan. 26 at 6 p.m. at the Trustmark Park Holiday Inn (110 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl, 601-939-5238).