2024 Congressional Primaries: The Key Races to Watch in Arizona and Tennessee
In the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, several key congressional races are taking place in Arizona and Tennessee. Here’s a closer look at the most anticipated contests:
Arizona
Senate: The departure of incumbent Democratic Sen. Kyrsten Sinema has set the stage for a competitive race between Democrat Rep. Ruben Gallego and two Republican frontrunners. Former TV anchor Kari Lake, a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump, is leading the GOP field, followed by Sheriff Mark Lamb, another election denier who has received significant outside support.
1st Congressional District: This purple-leaning seat is seeing a crowded Democratic primary with five candidates vying for the nomination. Businessman Andrei Cherny, former TV news anchor Marlene Galán-Woods, and former state Rep. Amish Shah are among the top contenders. Republican incumbent David Schweikert faces a strong challenge in this competitive district.
3rd Congressional District: Rep. Ruben Gallego’s bid for Senate has led to an open seat in this Democratic stronghold. Former state senator and state party leader Raquel Terán and Phoenix city council member Yassamin Ansari are engaged in a progressive battle for the nomination.
8th Congressional District: Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko’s retirement has sparked a six-candidate race in this comfortably red district. Venture capitalist Blake Masters, who lost to Sen. Mark Kelly in 2022, and former GOP AG nominee Abe Hamadeh are among the leading contenders. Despite endorsing both candidates, former President Trump’s influence is unclear.
Tennessee
5th Congressional District: Incumbent Rep. Andy Ogles faces a challenge from Nashville Metro Council member Courtney Johnston. Both candidates share conservative views but Johnston has criticized Ogles’s lack of effectiveness. The race has attracted attention and significant fundraising from both sides.
These primary races will shape the political landscape in Arizona and Tennessee and set the stage for the general election in 2024. Stay tuned for updates as these contests unfold.
