Midwest primaries put Democratic left-center rift to another test

The Democratic Party's internal ideological battle moves to the upper Midwest on Tuesday, with primary voters in Wisconsin and Minnesota choosing between progressive and more traditional candidates for high-stakes offices.

In Wisconsin, state Representative Francesca Hong, who identifies as a democratic socialist, leads the field for the gubernatorial nomination. She faces Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, who has the backing of current Governor Tony Evers, along with several other candidates who could split the more moderate vote. The eventual nominee will take on Republican Tom Tiffany in the general election.

Hong's campaign has drawn concern from some Democratic strategists who worry her past statements, including support for defunding the police that she has since disavowed, could hurt her in a general election. The race is critical for Democrats, who see the governor's office as key to countering Republican advantages in redistricting and to their hopes of winning the state in the 2028 presidential election.

In Minnesota, Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan is competing for the Senate nomination against Representative Angie Craig, who represents a swing district and has taken more moderate positions. Flanagan has criticized Craig for being too accommodating to the Trump administration, particularly on immigration. Republicans see the open seat as a potential pickup opportunity.

Elsewhere, Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont faces a primary challenge from the left by State Representative Josh Elliott, who argues the governor has not fought the administration hard enough. Lamont, who first gained prominence by defeating Senator Joe Lieberman in a 2006 primary, has recently started running ads against his challenger. Representative John Larson is also facing his first primary in years from former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin.

In western Wisconsin, Rebecca Cooke is expected to win the Democratic nomination for a rematch against Republican Representative Derek Van Orden in a competitive House district. Cooke has significant fundraising and institutional support.

South Carolina will also hold primaries for a special Senate election following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham. The Republican field includes Graham's sister Darline, who was appointed to the seat, along with several members of Congress and former Representative Mark Sanford. If no candidate secures a majority, the race will head to an August runoff.