Election Day Tuesday Turns into Election Hangover Wednesday: A Comprehensive Recap
Introduction
After a long and eventful Election Day, the results are slowly trickling in, and a clearer picture of the political landscape is emerging. In this comprehensive recap, we’ll delve into the most significant races that have been projected so far, highlighting key takeaways and providing a glimpse into the upcoming November elections.
Key Races: Democratic Primary for Missouri’s 1st District
In a major upset, progressive Rep. Cori Bush was defeated in the Democratic primary for Missouri’s 1st District. St. Louis County Prosecutor Wesley Bell, backed by millions of dollars from the pro-Israel organization AIPAC, secured the Democratic nomination and is poised to become the district’s next congressman in November.
Michigan Senate Race: Slotkin vs. Rogers
In Michigan’s hotly contested Senate race, Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin emerged victorious in her party’s primary. On the Republican side, former Rep. Mike Rogers claimed the GOP nomination. This highly anticipated matchup between Slotkin and Rogers will be one of the key races to watch in the 2024 Senate map.
Missouri Governor: Kehoe Prevails
Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe triumphed in the Republican primary for Missouri governor. Despite being the most moderate candidate in the field, he prevailed over Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, who surprisingly finished in last place despite leading in most polls.
Missouri 3rd District: Trump-Backed Onder Wins
State Sen. Bob Onder, endorsed by former President Trump, secured the Republican nomination in Missouri’s solid-red 3rd District. As the prohibitive favorite in the general election, Onder is likely to add another Republican seat to the House in November.
Kansas Races: Schmidt and Reddy Secure Nominations
In Kansas’s 2nd District, former state Attorney General Derek Schmidt defeated two challengers to win the Republican nomination and secure a likely seat in Congress in this safe red district.
In the 3rd District, oncologist and veteran Prasanth Reddy narrowly edged out Karen Crnkovich in the GOP primary. Reddy’s victory, with House Speaker Mike Johnson’s endorsement and substantial financial advantage, sets up a tough race against Democratic Rep. Sharice Davids in the general election.
Michigan’s 3rd District: Hudson Wins, Faces Scholten
Attorney Paul Hudson emerged as the Republican nominee in Michigan’s 3rd District, defeating Michael Markey. Hudson will face Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten in a potentially competitive race, though Scholten remains the favorite due to the district’s Democratic lean.
Michigan’s 8th District: Junge Runs Again, Rivet Wins Democratic Nod
State Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet clinched the Democratic nomination in Michigan’s 8th District, while Paul Junge easily won the Republican primary. Junge, who ran unsuccessfully against Elissa Slotkin in 2020 and Dan Kildee in 2022, is hoping for third time’s the charm against Dem Rep. Hillary Scholten.
Marlinga vs. James Rematch in Michigan’s 10th District
Carl Marlinga, the Democratic nominee in Michigan’s 10th District in 2022, has once again won the party’s nomination. He will face Republican Rep. John James in a rematch of the close 2022 race in this light-red district.
Bailey Wins Missouri Attorney General Race
Incumbent Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey secured the Republican nomination, defeating Trump’s personal attorney, Will Scharf.
Washington Governor’s Race: Ferguson vs. Reichert
The Associated Press (AP) has projected that the Washington governor’s race will be contested between Democratic Attorney General Bob Ferguson and Republican former Rep. Dave Reichert.
Washington Congressional Races: Gluesenkamp Perez and Kent to Rematch, Top-Two Primaries in Other Districts
In Washington’s 3rd District, AP projections indicate a rematch between incumbent Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez and Republican Joe Kent, who narrowly lost to Gluesenkamp Perez in 2022.
In the 4th District, former NASCAR driver Jerrold Sessler holds a narrow lead in the top-two primary, with Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse and Veterans advocate Tiffany Smiley trailing behind. Both Sessler and Smiley received Trump’s endorsement.
In the 6th District, Democratic state Sen. Emily Randall leads the top-two primary, followed by Republican state Sen. Drew MacEwen and Democratic Public Lands Commissioner Hilary Franz.
In the 5th District, Republican Michael Baumgartner has been projected to advance to the general election, while the race for second place remains tight between Democrat Carmela Conroy and Republican Jaquelin Maycumber.
Conclusion
As the results continue to come in, a clearer picture of the political landscape is emerging. The defeat of Cori Bush and the victories of Trump-backed candidates in Missouri’s 3rd District and Kansas’s 2nd District signal a potential shift in momentum towards Republicans. In Michigan and Washington, competitive races are shaping up, with incumbents facing tough challenges and several top-two primaries setting the stage for November runoffs. With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, these races will provide important insights into the political climate and the direction of future elections.
