August is a crucial month for primary elections as over a dozen states are gearing up for key contests. This follows a period of slow electoral activity in July. Senate races in Michigan and Alaska are expected to be pivotal in determining the November matchups, which could ultimately influence control of the Senate. Meanwhile, competitive House primaries in Missouri, Virginia, and Wisconsin offer insights into voter motivations within both major parties ahead of Election Day.
Senate Races to Watch
Michigan Senate Race
The Democratic primary for Michigan’s Senate seat has become a clash between the party’s centrist and progressive factions. Representative Haley Stevens, backed by Democratic leadership figures, faces Abdul El-Sayed, who has the support of notable progressives. This primary serves as a significant gauge for the Democratic Party’s direction after losses in 2024. Prognosticators like Cook Political Report consider it a toss-up, while others see it leaning Democratic.
South Carolina Senate Race
Senator Darline Graham seeks a full term after temporarily replacing her late brother. Though endorsed by Trump, Graham faces competition from several GOP figures in the special primary. A possible runoff is set for August 25 if no candidate secures a majority. The winner will challenge Democrat Annie Andrews in November.
Minnesota Senate Race
Republicans hope to face Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan over centrist Rep. Angie Craig in the open Senate contest. Michele Tafoya leads the GOP primary, but the state’s political climate may pose challenges for Republicans due to recent immigration policies under Trump.
Alaska Senate Race
In Alaska, Democrat Mary Peltola is aiming to flip a Senate seat currently held by Republican Dan Sullivan. August primaries will narrow down candidates for the November election, uniquely complicated by a Republican challenger who shares Sullivan’s name.
House Primaries to Watch
Missouri’s 1st Congressional District
After losing her seat, Rep. Cori Bush is challenging her successor, Wesley Bell. The primary winner in this solidly Democratic district will likely prevail in the general election.
Florida’s 20th Congressional District
Redistricting led Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz to contest in a new district, facing criticism from Black Democrats due to the district’s historical representation. She faces several challengers in the August primary.
Gubernatorial Races
Wisconsin Governor Race
Democratic socialist Francesca Hong leads the primary field to challenge Republican Rep. Tom Tiffany. Concerns rise among Democrats about her vulnerability in the general election.
Minnesota Governor Race
The gubernatorial race heats up with businessman Mike Lindell emerging as a frontrunner in the Republican primary, with Trump’s endorsement. Despite being seen as a Democratic stronghold, this race could shift dynamics depending on primary outcomes.
Michigan Governor Race
As Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s tenure ends, the race to replace her intensifies. Trump supports Rep. John James in the Republican primary, which features several contenders vying for the nomination.
Kansas Governor Race
Republicans are eager to flip the Kansas governor’s seat from outgoing Democrat Laura Kelly. The primary is crowded, with Trump endorsing Ty Masterson among other contenders.