The Republican candidate for Mississippi lieutenant governor stopped in Meridian Tuesday, on the second day of a 2-day statewide tour.

Phil Bryant, currently Mississippi state auditor, says he is backed by at least 14 state associations that he describes as creating jobs and economic growth in the state.

"Any candidate would want this. This is the Independent Insurance Agents, particularly, here in Meridian today, that are joining all those others in this endorsement," said Bryant. "And not only does it show a clear delineation between my candidacy and my opposition, our candidacy is about business and the business community is coming forward saying we want to help Phil Bryant be lieutenant governor."

Bryant says these associations are supporting him because he is pro-business and he said he believes their influence extends beyond their membership.

Bryant is opposed by Democrat state Rep. Jamie Franks in the Nov. 6 election.