On Tuesday, former President Trump continued to show his influence, helping several Republican candidates secure victories in crucial primaries.
Here are nine notable insights from the Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Alabama, and Georgia contests.
Trump ousts Thomas Massie in Kentucky
In a fiercely contested primary for Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District, Trump endorsed candidate Ed Gullane defeated Rep. Thomas Massie, making a significant mark on the Republican landscape.
Massie, often at odds with Trump, lost by around 10 points to Gullane, who had been relatively unknown prior to receiving Trump’s endorsement. This defeat, marked as one of the costliest primaries in U.S. history, further solidifies Trump’s control over Republican politics.
Massie hints at future plans
After the results, Massie’s supporters rallied, chanting “2028” and “president,” implying that he might not be stepping away from politics just yet. In a somewhat light-hearted response, he remarked, “What happens in 2028? Oh, you want me to run Congress again? I don’t really know what you mean.” He added jokingly, “You’ve made a strong case, but I could really use a medical margarita right now. Let’s discuss that later.”
Team-backed candidate claims victory in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, State Rep. Chris Love—who identifies as a democratic socialist—won the Democratic primary for the 3rd Congressional District, supported by far-left “Squad” members. Given the district’s strong Democratic lean, he’s poised for victory in the general election.
Georgia Republicans who crossed Trump face setback
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and former Lt. Gov. Jeff Duncan—who both opposed Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election—faced another defeat. Raffensperger gained about 15% of the Republican gubernatorial primary vote and did not make the runoff, while Duncan, running in the Democratic primary, secured around 7%. The primary was won by former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.
Republicans gear up for Senate runoff
In the Republican Senate primary in Georgia, Rep. Mike Collins and former football coach Derek Dooley are headed for a runoff after neither candidate passed the 50% threshold. Collins led with 41%, followed by Dooley at approximately 30%. Trump has yet to endorse a candidate in this race.
Rep. Buddy Carter finished third with 25% of the vote.
Alabama governor’s race echoes past contests
Former Senator Doug Jones clinched the Democratic primary for Alabama governor and will compete against Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville, who previously won against Jones in 2020. Tuberville, a former football coach, is expected to lead in the race to succeed term-out Republican Gov. Kay Ivey.
Alabama Senate primary will undergo runoff
Rep. Barry Moore secured a spot in the Republican runoff for the Senate seat vacated by Tuberville, earning just over 40% in the primary. The battle for the second runoff position remains too close to call. On the Democratic side, Everett Wess and Dakarai Larriet are advancing to the runoff as well, with Republicans favored in the general election.
Race to succeed Mitch McConnell
In the race to replace retiring Senator Mitch McConnell, Rep. Andy Barr and former Democratic Rep. Charles Booker won their respective primaries. Barr has already received Trump’s endorsement. Booker, who previously lost to Rand Paul in 2022, aims for a comeback.
Midterm contests in Pennsylvania’s battleground districts
The primaries on Tuesday set the stage for several midterm elections in Pennsylvania. In the 1st Congressional District, incumbent Brian Fitzpatrick will face Democrat Bob Harvey, with the district rated “likely” Republican. Meanwhile, in the 7th District, Rep. Ryan McKenzie is up against Bob Brooks, who has the backing of Bernie Sanders. This district is considered a toss-up. Also in play is Pennsylvania’s 10th District, where Janelle Stelson is challenging incumbent Scott Perry.
