Midwest Primaries Test Progressive Viability and 2028 Endorsement Power
On August 11, 2026, key primary elections in Wisconsin, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Connecticut test the influence of President Donald Trump’s endorsements and the viability of progressive candidates. In Wisconsin, democratic socialist Francesca Hong faces moderate David Crowley for governor, while in Minnesota, Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan challenges Rep. Angie Craig for the Senate. South Carolina’s Senate race features Trump-backed Darline Graham against Russell Fry and Ralph Norman. Connecticut’s 1st District sees 14-term incumbent John Larson face former Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin. These races also serve as a battleground for potential 2028 presidential hopefuls, with figures like Pete Buttigieg and Ro Khanna endorsing opposing sides.