The 2026 primary elections across six states—California, Iowa, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, and South Dakota—have set the stage for what promises to be a dynamic political landscape heading into the general election. From historic Senate races to chaotic gubernatorial contests, these primaries have provided a glimpse into the shifting dynamics of American politics.
The elections highlighted the ongoing debate within the Democratic Party about the type of candidate best suited to energize voters and secure victories. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump experienced a rare setback in his endorsement streak, adding an unexpected twist to the political narrative.
Iowa Democrats Rally Behind Former Paralympian in Marquee Senate Race
In Iowa, Democrats coalesced around Josh Tureka state representative and former Paralympian, for the marquee Senate race. Turek’s compelling personal biography and establishment support helped him secure the nomination, setting up a November showdown with Republican Ashley Hinson.
Turek’s victory is seen as a significant moment for Democrats, who are increasingly optimistic about regaining the Senate majority. The race in Iowa is one of several critical contests that could determine control of the chamber. The outcome will also have long-term implications for Democrats as they seek to rebuild their standing in the Midwest, a region that swung to the Republican president in 2026.
Looking ahead, the Democratic primary in Michigan on August 4 will be closely watched, with Rep. Haley Stevens emerging as the establishment candidate against state Sen. Mallory McMorrow and progressive Abdul El-Sayed.
Trump’s Endorsement Streak Faces Setback in Iowa
Former President Donald Trump‘s endorsement streak hit a snag in Iowa, where his backing was not enough to lift Rep. Randy Feenstra to victory in the Republican primary for governor. Feenstra narrowly lost to Zach Lahna relatively unknown candidate who built support among conservatives.
Lahn’s victory is a rare setback for Trump, who has enjoyed considerable influence over Republican voters with his endorsements. The outcome sets up what Democrats see as one of their best opportunities to pick up a governorship this year. Democratic nominee Rob Sandwho ran unopposed in the primary, has the rural roots and proven track record that could make him a strong contender in a Republican-leaning state.
Lahn’s campaign was marked by his advocacy for a total ban on abortion and keeping liberal ideology out of public school classrooms. He also gained a following with the “Make America Healthy Again” movement, which has clashed with the Trump administration over its embrace of pesticides.
California’s Chaotic Primary Elections
The California primary elections were marked by chaos and unpredictability. In the Los Angeles mayor’s race, incumbent Karen Bass secured enough votes to advance to the November runoff, but the identity of her opponent remains unclear. The race was jolted by the candidacy of Spencer Pratta reality TV star who sought to capitalize on dissatisfaction with Bass.
The race for California governor was equally chaotic, with about 60 names on the ballot to succeed Gavin Newsomwho is barred from seeking a third term. Prominent politicians like former Vice President Kamala Harris and Sen. Alex Padilla did not run, while former Rep. Eric Swalwell withdrew after being accused of sexual assault, which he denied.
In the final days of the campaign, attention focused on Democrats Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyeras well as Republican Steve Hiltonwho campaigned with Trump’s endorsement. The primary results will indicate the level of change sought in a state facing serious challenges ranging from affordability to crime.
California has been governed by establishment-oriented Democrats for two decades, and the primary results will signal whether the $200 million Steyer invested in his campaign proved to be a wise investment.
Independents Emerge in Senate Races in Republican Strongholds
In Republican strongholds like Montana and South Dakota, Democrats may need to rally around independent candidates to compete in Senate contests this fall. In Montana, independent Seth Bodnara former University of Montana president, looks like the strongest opponent to Republican Kurt Alme. Bodnar raised more money than all of the Democratic primary candidates combined and has even outraised Trump-backed Alme.
In South Dakota, Sen. Mike Rounds cruised to the Republican nomination and will face Democrat Julian Beaudion. However, some Democrats believe that independent Brian Bengsa former Democrat now running as an independent and a military veteran, may pose a tougher challenge.
The shift toward independents reflects the Democratic Party’s toxic brand in Republican strongholds. In Nebraska, Democratic leaders are openly endorsing independent Dan Osborne over their party’s nominee, who has promised to drop out to make it easier for Osborne to win.
Absent Congressman Faces Democratic Challenger in New Jersey
In New Jersey’s 7th Congressional District, Democrats nominated Rebecca Bennett to take on Republican Rep. Tom Kean Jr.who has been absent from Congress due to unexplained medical reasons. Kean has missed more than 100 votes since casting his last one on March 5.
Bennett, a former Navy pilot, made Kean’s absence a central issue in her campaign, arguing that he was not around to protect funding for a new rail tunnel connecting New Jersey and New York City. Trump reiterated his endorsement of Kean, who released a statement saying he is “focused on my recovery” and would return to “in-person work within a matter of weeks.”
New Mexico Could Make History in Governor’s Race
The stage is set for Deb Haaland to make history this fall after securing the Democratic nomination for governor in New Mexico. Haaland, the first Native American to serve in the Cabinet, could become the first Native American woman in U.S. history to be elected governor.
Haaland defeated Albuquerque-based District Attorney Sam Bregman in a primary campaign that emphasized her ancestral roots, as well as her experience and plans to lower costs. She will face Republican Greggory Hull in the general election.
