Voters in several US states and the capital Washington DC are heading to the polls this week for primary elections, as the country takes another step toward the crucial November midterms that will determine control of Congress. The midterms are also seen as a referendum on President Donald Trump's second term, with his popularity waning amid a costly war against Iran and rising living costs.
In Alabama, Republicans are holding a runoff to choose a candidate for the Senate seat vacated by Tommy Tuberville, who is running for governor. The first round on May 19 failed to produce a winner. Trump-backed Congressman Barry Moore leads with 39% of the vote, facing former Navy SEAL Jared Hudson, who got 26%. Democrats are choosing between pet aromatherapy entrepreneur Dakarai Larriett and former municipal judge Everett Wess.
California is holding a special primary election to replace former Representative Eric Swalwell, who resigned amid sexual abuse allegations. The top candidates include Democratic state Senator Aisha Wahab, former Dublin Mayor Melissa Hernandez, and Republican real estate investor Wendy Huang. California uses an open primary system, where all candidates run on a single ballot regardless of party.
In Georgia, Democratic Senator Jon Ossoff is seeking re-election, with Republicans hoping to flip the seat. The Republican primary runoff features Representative Mike Collins and former University of Tennessee football coach Derek Dooley. For governor, Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones faces healthcare executive Rick Jackson in a runoff. The winner will face Democratic candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms in November.
Oklahoma is holding primaries for several federal and state positions, including the race to succeed term-limited Governor Kevin Stitt. Nine candidates are vying for the Republican nomination, with Trump endorsing former state Senator Mike Mazzei. Another key race is for the Senate seat of Markwayne Mullin, who was tapped by Trump to lead DHS. Trump has endorsed Representative Kevin Hern. Voters will also decide on a measure to raise the state minimum wage.
Washington DC is holding a Democratic mayoral primary following the retirement of three-term Mayor Muriel Bowser. The race pits progressive candidate Janeese Lewis George against establishment-backed Councilman Kenyan McDuffie. Trump has threatened federal takeover of the city if Lewis George wins. The city will also vote for its non-voting delegate to Congress.
Source: www.aljazeera.com