2026 Midterm Primaries: Key Outcomes and Highlights

On May 19, voters in Crestwood, Ky., participated in the primary election at South Oldham Middle School. This event marked the busiest primary election day in the 2026 midterms, with six states casting ballots. In Kentucky, President Trump successfully removed incumbent Rep. Thomas Massie, who had not fully aligned with the president’s agenda. Meanwhile, Democrats in Georgia and other states showed strong turnout. Concerns among voters included rising gas prices, affordability issues, the war in Iran, and the Trump administration’s handling of these matters.

Alabama Primary Election Changes

The recent Supreme Court decision has impacted Alabama’s redistricting efforts, causing confusion in the primary timeline. Primaries for the 1st, 2nd, 6th, and 7th congressional districts are rescheduled, while others proceed as planned. Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville faces former Democratic Sen. Doug Jones to replace term-limited Republican Gov. Kay Ivey.

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📊 Results: Full results available

Record Turnout and Spending in Georgia

Georgia’s primary elections witnessed significant spending by Republicans and high turnout led by Democrats. Democrats cast about 53% of the primary ballots. Many key races are headed for runoffs, including the Republican race against incumbent Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff. The governor’s race promises to be closely watched, with Billionaire Rick Jackson and Trump-endorsed Lt. Gov. Burt Jones facing off in a runoff.

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📊 Results: Full results available
🗳️ Voter Guide: Visit WABE and GPB Guides

Complete Ballot in Idaho

As reported by James Dawson from Boise State Public Radio, all Idaho legislative races along with key U.S. House races were on the ballot. Detailed results can be found at BSPR’s election blog.

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📊 Results: Full results available
🗳️ Voter Guide: Visit BSPR for more information

Kentucky’s Senate Race

In Kentucky, Democrats aimed to challenge Sen. Mitch McConnell’s seat. Rep. Andy Barr secured the Republican nomination and will face Democrat Charles Booker, who lost to Sen. Rand Paul in 2022. Rep. Thomas Massie’s defeat by Trump-backed Ed Gallrein marks another key result.

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📊 Results: Full results available
🗳️ Voter Guide: Visit Louisville Public Media’s Guide

Oregon’s Gubernatorial Race

Oregon’s primary saw Republican State Sen. Christine Drazan and Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek nominated for the governorship. They will compete again after the 2022 contest where Kotek won with 47% of the vote. Statewide gas tax measures were not approved.

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📊 Results: Full results available
🗳️ Voter Guide: Visit OPB’s Guide

Pennsylvania’s Competitive Primaries

Pennsylvania hosted three competitive congressional races that might affect House balance. Chris Rabb won Philly’s 3rd Congressional District Democratic primary amid candidate division over Gaza and fundraising. Three Republican-held seats are considered toss-ups.

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📊 Results: Full results available
🗳️ Voter Guide: Visit WHYY and WESA Guides