On May 14, voters in Maryland, Nebraska, and West Virginia participated in competitive and contentious Democrat and Republican primaries that could impact the House and Senate majorities. In Maryland, the most high-profile contest is for a Senate seat held by the Democrats for a long time. Former Gov. Larry Hogan is considered the front-runner for the GOP Senate nomination, making the Democrats uneasy in a traditionally blue state. The Democrat Senate primary to succeed retiring Sen. Ben Cardin is a closely watched battle between big spenders and high-profile endorsements.
Maryland’s Senate race is heated, with wealthy businessman David Trone facing off against Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks for the Democrat nomination. Trone has spent over $50 million on his campaign and is pushing electability as a core argument for his candidacy. Despite Trone’s spending advantage, Alsobrooks has the backing of the state’s Democrat establishment, including endorsements from top officials. The battle between Trone and Alsobrooks highlights a struggle between resources and experience in Maryland’s Senate contest.
In West Virginia, Republicans are looking to secure a Senate seat in a state that former President Trump carried in 2020. Governor Jim Justice is a favorite in the GOP Senate primary, competing against a crowded field that includes conservative Rep. Alex Mooney. The GOP nominee is expected to have a strong chance of flipping the Democrat-held seat in November. Democrats, on the other hand, are aiming to reclaim the House majority they lost in the 2022 midterms, with Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional District being a target for them.
In Nebraska, the Republican primary poses challenges for incumbent Rep. Don Bacon, facing a challenge from the party’s right flank. Both of Nebraska’s Republican senators are also facing primary opposition. The state’s primary elections offer Democrats a chance to make gains in traditionally red districts. In West Virginia, the GOP gubernatorial primary takes center stage with several candidates vying for the nomination. These primary elections in Maryland, Nebraska, and West Virginia could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress.
Both President Biden and former President Trump are likely to face challenges in the presidential primaries in these states. Biden’s support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas could lead to protest votes in Democrat primaries. In the GOP contests, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley may still receive support from a small percentage of voters. Tuesday’s primaries in Maryland, Nebraska, and West Virginia are crucial in determining the trajectory of the House and Senate majorities, as well as setting the stage for the 2024 presidential elections.
