He DID have it in the bag. We all know, the Democrats and GOPe included, that McDaniel is the legitimate victor, but the "winner" is Cochran, the same way liberalism, representing a tyrannical minority, always wins: by cheating.
The question is: will the American majority wake up in time to resolve it peacefully? Will America put forth a "second" party alternative to the like-minded Democrat-Republican pro-government usurping of freedom? I like a Second Party because our 2nd Amendment is so crucial, and would be a uniting commonality.
The Republican party is past its prime unless it is transformed by a miracle in the next two years. As long as guys like Cochran, Barbour, and Romney are "Republican," the party is moot. It's image is exactly what it is: a hypocritical opportunist.
Legitimate, average voters know this, even if it sails over other heads. They stay home or vote third party.
They would be transformed if they had something to vote FOR.
"Republican" is an albatross.
Haley Barbour, like all the R establishment, will always stand by another incumbent. They know that if they embrace change they could be the next one voted out.
“Second Party” is a good name. Remember that old Avis slogan We’re Number Two—We Try Harder! That could work as a political slogan for a grassroots movement. And the tie in with the Second Amendment would have real meaning for a lot of voters.