Primary Races Test Trump’s Control and Progressive Momentum
Primary elections in six states will test the strength of President Trump’s influence over the Republican Party. Voters are also gauging the Democratic base’s inclination towards progressive candidates. The Democratic field in the Wisconsin governor’s race and the Minnesota Senate seat are among the high-profile contests. In South Carolina, Republicans are competing to replace Senator Lindsey Graham, a key Trump ally who died unexpectedly in July.
Contests to Watch
President Trump has endorsed Senator Lindsey Graham’s sister, Darline Graham, for his vacant seat. Despite her lack of experience in public office, Trump supports her as she pursues a full six-year term. Her Republican competitors include Representatives Russell Fry, a Trump supporter, and Ralph Norman, a member of the Freedom Caucus. A runoff will take place on August 25 if no candidate wins a majority.
In Wisconsin, Francesca Hong, a chef, state legislator, and democratic socialist, leads the Democratic primary for governor. Her left-wing policies have energized her supporters, but moderates have shown concern about her general election viability. Governor Tony Evers supports David Crowley, the Milwaukee County executive.
Hong faced criticism for a 2020 social media post advocating the cancellation of Thanksgiving. She has walked back from that statement recently. Her platform includes abolishing ICE and raising taxes on individuals earning over $750,000 annually.
In Minnesota, Representative Angie Craig, a moderate Democrat, is up against the progressive Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan for the Senate nomination in a typically blue-leaning state. Flanagan’s bid follows the retirement of Senator Tina Smith.
Key Figures and Endorsements
Mike Lindell, the MyPillow CEO and leader in the election denial movement, has Trump’s endorsement in the Minnesota Republican gubernatorial primary. Meanwhile, Senator Amy Klobuchar is expected to secure the Democratic gubernatorial nomination.
Additionally, Representative Tom Tiffany is leaving his northern Wisconsin seat to run for governor. Michael Alfonso, the Trump-backed son-in-law of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, is among those vying to replace him.
Alabama’s redistricting will likely affect Representative Shomari Figures as his congressional seat is subject to shifts due to the Supreme Court’s recent Voting Rights Act decision. Trump endorsed Rhett Marques, a state representative.
Representative John Larson from Connecticut faces a challenge from a significantly younger rival, amid calls for older lawmakers to step aside.
From the Campaign Trail
Francesca Hong attended a canvassing event in Madison, offering campaign bracelets with slogans such as “Defund war,” “Abolish ICE,” and “Tax the Rich.” She emphasized the grassroots nature of her campaign, noting the large number of volunteers and voters her team has engaged.
“We are going to continue to meet voters across our state and discuss the issues they care about,” Hong told reporters.
President Trump’s recommendation of Darline Graham was initially met with uncertainty. She was unfamiliar to many in political circles. Graham, though respected for her previous work advocating for disability rights, had never sought public office before. After considering numerous options, including Russell Fry, Governor McMaster backed her interim appointment.
As a result of Trump’s endorsement, Graham is viewed as a front-runner. The challenge lies in her transition from a non-political background to a competitive primary race for a Senate seat. Former South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford also entered the crowded Republican field, emphasizing the intensity of the campaigning effort.
Competition Among Democrats
The Democratic Party’s emerging left-wing has maintained its momentum. Successes in past primaries underscore the movement. In Wisconsin, Francesca Hong might redefine the socialist label’s acceptance in swing states ahead of the November election. Concerns linger that a socialist candidate may struggle in general elections, affecting the party’s power dynamics.
State Representative Hong faces competition from David Crowley, backed by Governor Evers. The Republican frontrunner expected to face Hong is Tom Tiffany, with known ties to Trump.
In Minnesota’s Senate race, the rivalry between Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan echoes the previous Michigan contest. Flanagan has strong support from Bernie Sanders, championing Medicare for All and reevaluating military support to Israel. Accusations link her to fraud issues in state-run safety net programs.
In contrast, Craig has garnered support from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. This race may influence Minnesota’s political dynamics, as no Republican has won a statewide election there since 2006.