Eleven of the 32 Republicans in the Mississippi Senate say they’re forming a conservative coalition to help evaluate bills.
In announcing their plan Tuesday, they say they’re not disgruntled. They also say they’re inviting others to join, sending letters today to their fellow senators.
“This is about advancing conservative issues. Period. End of game,” said Sen. Michael Watson, one of the 11 senators. “I am a member of this group because we finally have a Republican majority in the House and the Senate, but I’m not sure it is a conservative majority based on some of the legislation that has passed and more importantly, some legislation that has failed.
“I am concerned we’re getting caught up in go-along governing where I scratch your back, you scratch mine has taken precedence over common sense and responsible governing.”
The coalition chairman is second-term Sen. Chris McDaniel, of Ellisville, who’s often mentioned as a potential candidate for statewide office such as U.S. senator.
In addition to McDaniel and Watson, the members of the coalition announced Tuesday are third-term Sen. Perry Lee of Mendenhall and freshmen Sens. Phillip Gandy of Waynesboro, Josh Harkins of Flowood, Angela Burks Hill of Picayune, Will Longwitz of Madison, Chris Massey of Nesbit, David Parker of Olive Branch, Tony Smith of Picayune and Melanie Sojourner of Natchez.
Mississippi PEP 
Wise and courageous move for these senators that I surely applaud. Hoping many more will join their ranks.