Episode Details

Grab your sweet tea and pull up a chair! Heidi and Joel sit down with Scott Colom, candidate for U.S. Senate from Mississippi, to talk about what it actually takes to turn one of the reddest states in the nation. If you care about expanding the map, building real coalitions, and what Democrats can win when they show up, this episode's for you.

In this episode:

• How engaging directly with voters increased turnout by 90% in Mississippi's primaries
• Scott Colom’s stance on tariffs, healthcare, and rural economic revival
• The importance of authenticity and listening in modern politics
• How Colom plans to combat voter suppression and fight for fair elections
• The story about a soldier missing his daughter's softball game—and why it hits home
• Insights into Mississippi's unique primary system and demographic challenges
• The power of community voices—like barbers and farmers—in shaping policy

Most people have already written Mississippi off before the ballots are even printed. But Scott Colom isn't most people. In this conversation, the senate candidate makes the case that the most unexpected races can become the most important ones — and that the path to a Democratic Senate majority might just run through the heart of the Deep South.

Whether you're a political junkie, a grassroots organizer, or just someone who believes no voter should be left behind, this episode will challenge the way you think about the electoral map. Don't count Mississippi out. Hit play and hear why.

Connect with Scott Colom

• Scott Colom for Senate
• Scott Colom on Instagram
• Scott Colom on Facebook 

And remember: the dish is hottest when the race is closest. Don't miss the next Hot Dish — more flavor, less fuss!

The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject).

• (00:00) - Introduction to The Hot Dish and Mississippi Politics
• (03:02) - Scott Colom's Campaign and Vision for Change
• (06:05) - Challenges Facing Mississippi Farmers
• (09:07) - Building Trust with Voters
• (11:50) - Understanding Mississippi's Primary System
• (14:55) - Impact of Tariffs and Economic Policies
• (18:08) - Personal Stories and the Cost of War
• (21:02) - Centering Voters in Political Conversations
• (24:02) - Scott Colom's Unique Position in the Race
• (26:45) - Conclusion and Future Aspirations
• (29:13) - Enthusiasm in Politics
• (32:09) - Analyzing Senate Races
• (35:14) - Grassroots Support and Community Engagement