Mike Ezell

BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) — U.S. Rep. Mike Ezell, a Republican representing Mississippi’s 4th Congressional District, said he will work to seek common ground when he returns to Washington in January as a member of the minority party.

Ezell was re-elected to a third term on Tuesday, but the balance of power in Congress shifted from Republicans to Democrats.

“I’m very thankful and humbled by the support that everybody in Mississippi has shown me, and I’ll continue to do the work,” Ezell said.

Ezell said his campaign stuck to the issues and that he defended his record in Washington.

“The people in South Mississippi showed me that they wanted me to go back and continue to do what we’ve been doing,” Ezell said.

He said his Democratic opponent, State Rep. Jeffrey Hulum, ran “a very good campaign.”

“We just have a difference of opinion on policies and the way that we work,” Ezell said.

Republicans held the majority during Ezell’s first two terms, so he has never worked in the minority.

“I’ll continue to do exactly what I’ve always done,” Ezell said. “I’ll show up, I’ll be there, first one in my chair, going to work.”

The U.S. representative said he plans to meet with members to get things done.

“This ain’t the first time this has ever happened,” Ezell said. “The American people have spoken, and we’re going to get out here and go to work and try to continue to get some good work done for Mississippi.”

He said Republicans will voice their concerns and try to find common ground on several issues such as roads, bridges, and schools.

When asked what Republicans learned from the election, Ezell said, “The American people spoke. We will adhere to their will, and we will go serve the people.”

Ezell sits on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He said he has colleagues on the committee on the other side of the aisle who face the same problems.

“Everybody’s got potholes. Everybody needs a new road,” Ezell said. He said committee members work well together and will continue to do so.

When asked about drawbridges on hurricane evacuation routes, Ezell said he will continue to pursue federal funding.

“We’re not the only one that has a disaster. There are various other disasters that occur around the country. And so, we’ll continue to put our efforts forward to try to get the best for Mississippi,” Ezell said.

Mississippi’s U.S. Senate race between Republican incumbent Sen. Cindy Hyde-Smith and Democratic challenger Scott Colom remains too close to call.

Ezell was asked about his thoughts on the race, which has not been decided at the time of the interview.

“I support Cindy. We’re Republicans. I hope it turns out for her,” Ezell said. “Again, we will take whatever the votes say and go forward. That’s the way it is here in America, and that’s what we’re going to continue to do.”

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