Voters in Maryland, West Virginia, Nebraska, and North Carolina went to the polls for primary elections, setting up key Senate races and other intraparty battles. Former President Donald Trump’s endorsements were at stake in races in West Virginia and North Carolina, where candidates he supported were vying for victory. Republicans were eyeing possible pickups in traditionally blue Maryland and red West Virginia as they aimed to flip the Senate in the upcoming elections. Polls closed at various times throughout the evening, with several key races to watch.
In the West Virginia Senate race, the GOP primary was closely contested despite the state being won by Trump in 2020 by a wide margin. Candidates vied for the endorsement of Trump, with Gov. Jim Justice receiving early support. Other candidates, such as Rep. Alex Mooney, also tried to capitalize on Trump’s influence. On the Democratic side, three candidates were competing for the nomination, including Don Blankenship, a former coal baron who previously ran for the Senate. In Maryland, the Senate matchup featured former Gov. Larry Hogan in the GOP primary, with the race shaping up to be crucial in Senate control.
House Republicans faced challenges from the right in several races, including Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska and West Virginia’s 1st District candidate, who faced a former state delegate convicted for involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot. In Maryland, former Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn was running in a crowded field for the open 3rd District seat. The primary races were expected to set the stage for competitive general election matchups in November.
The West Virginia governor’s race to replace Jim Justice was chaotic, with a crowded field of candidates including several powerful politicians and family members of well-known political figures in the state. Attack ads and significant spending characterized the primary, with more than $33 million spent by candidates and outside groups. Although there was no clear frontrunner, the eventual Republican nominee was expected to be heavily favored in the general election against the Democratic candidate, Huntington Mayor Steve Williams.
Overall, the primary elections in these four states were closely watched as they set the stage for key Senate races and intraparty battles. The influence of former President Donald Trump, competitive House races, and contentious gubernatorial contests underscored the high stakes of these elections. The outcomes would help shape the political landscape leading up to the general election and potentially change the balance of power in Congress.
