JACKSON (AP) — State Rep. Michael Ted Evans has won the Democratic nomination for the open third congressional seat.

Evans of Preston has beaten police investigator Michael Aycox.

A chicken farmer and former volunteer firefighter, Evans has campaigned on using congressional office to aid Mississippi problems including infrastructure, health care, education and broadband internet for rural areas.

Aycox, a Navy veteran who lives in Hickory, was making his first bid for public office. Aycox ran on protecting federal spending and making Congress more accessible to common citizens.

Republican Gregg Harper, who is retiring, has represented the district for 10 years.

Aycox raised only $1,500, while a finance report wasn’t posted for Evans.

Evans will face a Republican and Reform Party member Matthew Holland of Hattiesburg in November.