Key Senate Races Set After Tuesday Primaries

CNN — The matchups for two crucial Senate races this fall were determined after Tuesday's primaries, which saw two Republican governors advance and a Democratic county executive defeat a heavily financed congressman.

In Maryland, moderate former Gov. Larry Hogan won the Republican primary. Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks triumphed over Rep. David Trone, who had loaned his campaign at least $62 million, in a fiercely contested Democratic primary.

In West Virginia, Gov. Jim Justice easily won the GOP primary, positioning himself for a November showdown with Democratic nominee Wheeling Mayor Glenn Elliott. Justice is heavily favored to win the seat, which opened up following Sen. Joe Manchin's retirement. Elliott, endorsed by Manchin, lessens the likelihood of an independent bid by Manchin.

Meanwhile, moderate House Republicans fended off conservative challengers, and West Virginia Republicans chose their nominee to replace Justice as governor.

Tuesday’s contests in non-competitive presidential states, except for Nebraska’s 2nd congressional district, showcased a recurring theme: some Republican voters are still voting against Trump. Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley garnered significant support in deep-red Nebraska and Maryland.

Five Takeaways from Tuesday’s Primaries:

1. Trone’s Millions Couldn’t Stop Alsobrooks in Maryland:

Despite spending tens of millions of his own money, third-term House Democrat David Trone lost to Angela Alsobrooks in the Democratic Senate primary. Alsobrooks, who could become the third Black woman elected to the US Senate, will face former Gov. Larry Hogan in November, a race that will require significant Democratic investment. Alsobrooks' victory underscores the importance of grassroots support and effective campaigning over sheer financial muscle.

2. Justice Positioned to Flip Manchin’s Senate Seat in West Virginia:

Republicans are poised to gain a Senate seat with Gov. Jim Justice's primary victory. Justice will compete against Glenn Elliott in November. The heavily Republican state, where Trump secured over 68% of the vote in both 2016 and 2020, makes Justice the favorite to win. Justice’s strong local backing and significant political experience further solidify his position.

3. AIPAC Scores a Win in Deep Blue Maryland:

Maryland state Sen. Sarah Elfreth emerged from a crowded primary, aided by significant support from AIPAC’s super PAC, United Democracy Project, and organized labor. Despite low national recognition, Elfreth's local connections and strategic campaign led to her nomination. This win highlights the influential role of local endorsements and focused campaigning in deep-blue districts.

4. Moderate House GOP Incumbents Survive:

In Nebraska’s 2nd District, Rep. Don Bacon defeated conservative challenger Dan Frei, setting up a rematch with Democratic state lawmaker Tony Vargas. Rep. Carol Miller also survived a challenge from Derrick Evans, a former state lawmaker involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. These victories illustrate the resilience of moderate Republicans in maintaining their seats amidst intra-party challenges.

5. Morrisey Wins Nasty West Virginia Gubernatorial Primary:

Attorney General Patrick Morrisey won a contentious primary against Moore Capito, Mac Warner, and Chris Miller. The primary featured aggressive advertising and personal attacks. Morrisey will face Democratic Huntington Mayor Steve Williams in the general election. This race underscores the fierce competition and high stakes in gubernatorial contests.

These primaries highlight the ongoing battles within both parties and set the stage for intense Senate and gubernatorial races this fall. The outcomes will be pivotal in determining control of the Senate and the direction of state leadership in key regions. As the November elections approach, both parties will ramp up their efforts to secure victories in these crucial races, shaping the future political landscape.