Primary elections are underway today in five US states: Michigan, Kansas, Virginia, Washington, and Missouri. The Democratic Senate primary in Michigan is drawing significant attention, being described as a high-stakes test for the party's future.
In Michigan, voters are choosing between Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive former public health official, and Representative Haley Stevens, a centrist supported by Democratic leaders. This race has become the Democratic Party's most expensive and contentious Senate primary, with Stevens' campaign benefiting from over $60 million in outside spending from super PACs. Despite this, recent polls showed El-Sayed with a slight lead as voting commenced.
Other notable contests include the race to replace Governor Laura Kelly in Kansas, where three Democrats and several Republican candidates are vying for the role. In Missouri, voters are deciding on various primary races and constitutional ballot measures, including a Democratic House primary rematch between incumbent Wesley Bell and progressive former Representative Cori Bush.
Virginians are selecting nominees for a US Senate race and several congressional districts following redistricting. In Washington state, Democratic Representative Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking a third term and faces multiple challengers, including Republican state Senate minority leader John Braun.