Millions of voters across the United States are heading to the polls today in crucial primaries that will shape key gubernatorial, Senate, and House races. Here is a quick rundown of what we are watching:
California
Voters are casting ballots to determine who will lead the nation's most populous state, which also boasts the world's fourth-largest economy. There is no clear frontrunner among candidates vying to succeed term-limited Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. The race for Los Angeles mayor is also on the ballot, along with a series of high-stakes US House contests in the state's newly redrawn congressional districts. These districts are expected to play an outsized and potentially decisive role in the battle for power in Washington during November's midterm elections.
Iowa
With former President Donald Trump's approval ratings underwater, high gas prices, and historical political trends favoring the party out of power, Democrats are eyeing a comeback in Iowa. The state is central to their campaigns to regain control of both the US House and the Senate. The effort for a 'once-in-a-generation' breakthrough in the GOP-dominated state is led by pro-hunting Democrat Rob Sand, who is running for governor. Democrats also believe they have a shot at winning three of the state's US House seats and a competitive chance at securing a US Senate seat, where the GOP frontrunner recently called Trump's war on Iran a 'political liability.'
New Jersey
One of the most closely watched House midterm races this year will take place in the battleground district currently represented by Republican Tom Kean Jr, who has drawn public scrutiny after missing more than 100 House votes due to an undisclosed illness. Voters are deciding which Democrat will face him in November, and the seat is considered a must-win for the party. The frontrunner, veteran army trauma surgeon and political newcomer Adam Hamawy, has secured endorsements from prominent progressives such as Bernie Sanders, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Ilhan Omar.
New Mexico
Contests in the state include primaries for congressional seats, a US Senate seat, and a long list of statewide offices, but the governor's race is the main event. Deb Haaland, who served as Joe Biden's interior secretary, is running for the Democratic nomination, which could put her on a historic path for Native American leaders.
Montana
In Montana, a five-way Democratic primary is underway for the retiring Republican senator's seat. Independent candidate Seth Bodnar, former president of the University of Montana, is outraising his opponents, but they are refusing to step aside, according to Politico.
South Dakota
The race includes contests for state governor, Sioux Falls mayor, a US Senate and House seat, and a Republican primary for local lawmakers. Incumbent GOP Governor Larry Rhoden faces three primary challengers in his first run for a full term. He stepped up from the lieutenant governorship when former Governor Kristi Noem left to lead the Department of Homeland Security.
