Latest Updates on Democratic and Republican Primaries

Wisconsin Democratic Race Sheds Light on Voter Shift

The Democratic primary for governor in Wisconsin highlights a significant shift among undecided voters towards David Crowley in the final days of the race. Francesca Hong has secured 40% of the vote, consistent with a Marquette Law School poll conducted from July 22 to July 27, which showed her leading the field with 38%. A notable 34% of voters in the poll remained undecided, while Crowley had garnered only 7% support. Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, previously at 16% in the poll, exited the race on July 30. The change in dynamics coincided with Crowley relaunching his campaign, now endorsed by Gov. Tony Evers and accompanied by new campaign ads.

Evers and Crowley actively campaigned together after the poll, amid scrutiny on Hong regarding her past statements and policies.

Trump’s Endorsement Record Faces Setbacks

Mike Lindell’s loss in Minnesota’s gubernatorial primary marks the third defeat this year for a Trump-backed candidate in governor races, following Rep. Randy Feenstra’s loss in Iowa and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones’ loss in Georgia. Trump narrowly avoided a loss in South Carolina’s gubernatorial primary by backing both Alan Wilson and Lt. Gov. Pam Evette, with Wilson eventually winning. Despite high-profile losses, Trump’s endorsement remains potent within Republican primaries, with over 200 of his chosen candidates winning this year.

Lisa Demuth Wins Minnesota Republican Primary, Flanagan Secures Democratic Senate Nomination

State House Speaker Lisa Demuth emerged victorious in Minnesota’s Republican primary for governor, defeating Trump-backed businessman Mike Lindell. Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan triumphed in Minnesota’s Democratic Senate primary against moderate Rep. Angie Craig, marking a significant win for the party’s progressive wing.

Other Notable Election Results

Amanda Janoo secured the Democratic nomination for Vermont governor, facing Gov. Phil Scott, a longstanding Republican in the blue state. In Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District, Rebecca Cooke won the Democratic primary, setting her up for a rematch against GOP Rep. Derrick Van Orden in November. In Wisconsin’s 7th District, Michael Alfonso, endorsed by Trump, claimed the Republican primary. Further primaries in Minnesota’s 2nd District saw Matt Little winning the Democratic nomination.

Crowley vs. Hong: A Close Contest

With 83% of the vote counted, Hong leads Crowley by 307 votes out of approximately 666,000 tallied. Attention remains on the mail-in ballots, expected to have a substantial impact due to Crowley’s brief campaign suspension.

NBC News Projects Various Primary Outcomes

Tom Tiffany won Wisconsin’s Republican primary for governor. The Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor was deemed too close to call. In Alabama’s 1st Congressional District, Jerry Carl secured victory, while Rhett Marques won in the 2nd District Republican special primary. Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan’s win in Minnesota’s Democratic primary reflects a significant shift within the party.

Mixed Results in South Carolina GOP Primaries

Sen. Darline Graham advanced to a runoff against Rep. Ralph Norman for South Carolina’s Republican Senate nomination. Her connection to her late brother, Lindsey Graham, was central to her campaign, though some voters expressed concerns about her political inexperience.

Discussions and Controversies

In South Carolina, concerns arose over Sen. Darline Graham’s political experience as she runs for her late brother’s Senate seat. Additionally, Sen. John Cornyn of Texas expressed objections to planned border wall construction in Texas parks, emphasizing its potential impact on the environment and local communities.