Businessman Eric Hovde won the Wisconsin Republican primary for the Senate, setting up a race against Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin, a critical battleground-state matchup. Baldwin’s seat is a top priority for both parties in the battle for control of the closely divided Senate. In 2018, Baldwin won re-election by 11 points and has a financial edge over Hovde. The candidates have been trading negative ads, with Baldwin highlighting Hovde’s comments about children born out of wedlock, while Hovde criticizes Baldwin’s record on inflation, the border, and crime.
In Minnesota, Congresswoman Ilhan Omar won her primary, while fellow squad members who have criticized Israel lost theirs. GOP Rep. Michelle Fischbach also won her primary, despite failing to win the party’s endorsement. In the battleground 2nd District, Democratic Rep. Angie Craig will face Marine veteran Joe Teirab in November. In Connecticut’s 5th District, Democratic Rep. Jahana Hayes will face Republican former state Sen. George Logan, after each ran unopposed in their primaries. Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy and Republican Gov. Phil Scott in Vermont are expected to win their re-election bids.
Overall, the primaries in these states set the stage for competitive races in the upcoming general election, with both parties vying for control in various districts and states. Controversial remarks and negative campaigning have been prevalent, as candidates seek to distinguish themselves and appeal to voters on issues like the economy, immigration, and crime.
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