Primary Elections Unfold Across Several States

The polls closed Tuesday evening in South Carolina and Vermont, marking the beginning of a pivotal primary night. Key races are taking place, notably the race to succeed the late Sen. Lindsey Graham in South Carolina, and President Donald Trump’s influence is set to be tested once again.

South Carolina and Vermont Primaries

In South Carolina, Trump is supporting Sen. Darline Graham, the late senator’s younger sister, in a highly competitive Republican Senate primary. This follows her appointment by GOP Governor Henry McMaster to complete her brother’s term. Notable opponents include Reps. Ralph Norman, Russell Fry, and former Gov. Mark Sanford.

Midwest Highlights: Wisconsin and Minnesota

Wisconsin and Minnesota are seeing significant political contests that could influence the Democratic Party’s direction. In Wisconsin, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong, backed by progressives including Reps. Ilhan Omar and Ro Khanna, is promising change. Her platform includes raising the minimum wage to $20 per hour and a one-year halt on constructing AI data centers. She has faced criticism over past social media statements calling for changes to police funding and Thanksgiving celebrations, which she now distances herself from.

Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany, endorsed by Trump and a hard-right House Freedom Caucus member, is likely to be her main opponent, aiming to shift the governor’s office from Democratic hands. Meanwhile, significant Republican super PACs are investing heavily in Hong’s primary to face her as an opponent.

Minnesota’s Emerging Contests

Minnesota also presents crucial Democratic primaries with Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan and Rep. Angie Craig vying for the Senate nomination, as Sen. Tina Smith retires. Republicans see potential gains with candidates such as former TV reporter Michele Tafoya leading the GOP primary field.

Additional Races Around the Nation

In South Carolina’s GOP gubernatorial race, Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, initially backed by Trump, lost to Attorney General Alan Wilson in a runoff. Trump later endorsed Wilson, showing the complexities of endorsements this cycle.

In Connecticut, Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont faces a primary threat from state Rep. Josh Elliott. In Vermont, Republican Gov. Phil Scott runs unopposed, eyeing a sixth term. The Democratic contest there features Aly Richards versus Amanda Janoo.

Alabama holds special primaries under a GOP congressional map after a U.S. Supreme Court decision.