US primaries: What to watch in Kansas, Missouri, Virginia, Washington
Key Points:
- Voters in Kansas, Missouri, Virginia, Michigan, and Washington are participating in midterm primaries to select Republican and Democratic candidates for the November elections, with key contests influencing control of Congress and testing party divisions.
- In Kansas, the Republican primary for governor is highly competitive as the party aims to reclaim the office from term-limited Democrat Laura Kelly, with endorsements from Trump playing a significant role; the 3rd Congressional District also features a progressive challenge to incumbent Democrat Sharice Davids.
- Missouri's Democratic primary in the 1st Congressional District is a high-profile rematch between Wesley Bell and Cori Bush, reflecting broader party debates over Israel, AIPAC's influence, and progressive versus establishment priorities.
- Virginia's races include a critical House battleground in the 2nd District between Republican Jen Kiggans and Democrat Elaine Luria, while Democratic Senator Mark Warner is favored to win re-election amid Republican challengers.
- Washington's 3rd Congressional District is a key toss-up with Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez defending her seat against Trump-endorsed Republican John Braun, and the 9th District primary highlights internal Democratic conflicts over foreign policy and defense spending.