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Primary elections are taking place today in Alaska, California, Florida, and Wyoming that could impact the balance of power in Congress heading into November. With less than 80 days until the midterms, these contests will reveal which wing of each party is ascendant—and what issues are driving turnout in key battleground states.
Florida: A High-Stakes House Battle
Florida’s House races are particularly interesting this cycle. Democratic Rep. Jared Moskowitz is facing a primary challenge from Democratic Socialist Oliver Larkin in a newly approved Republican-friendly district. The district, which was redrawn during the mid-decade redistricting battle, now leans Republican—meaning the primary winner could face an uphill battle in November.
Why It Matters: The race is a test of whether progressive candidates can compete in districts that have been gerrymandered to favor Republicans. It’s also a test of whether establishment Democrats can hold off primary challenges from the left.
Alaska: Ranked-Choice Chaos
In Alaska, incumbent Republican Sen. Dan Sullivan faces a same-named challenger in a ranked-choice primary. The race is complicated by Alaska’s unique voting system, which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference. Sullivan, who has served in the Senate since 2015, is considered a vulnerable incumbent in a state that has become increasingly competitive.
Why It Matters: Alaska’s ranked-choice system has already produced surprises—most notably in the 2022 House race, when Democrat Mary Peltola won a seat that had been held by Republicans for decades. The outcome of this primary could signal whether Democrats can compete in the state’s Senate race.
California: A Preview of the General Election
California’s “jungle primary” system means that the top two finishers in today’s primaries—regardless of party—will advance to the general election. Several House races in California are considered potential pick-up opportunities for Democrats, including districts in Orange County and the Central Valley.
Why It Matters: California’s primary results will set the stage for the general election. If Democrats can consolidate their support in key districts, they could flip several seats in November.
Wyoming: A Test of Trump’s Endorsement Power
In Wyoming, the primary race for the state’s at-large House seat is a test of President Trump’s endorsement power. The incumbent Republican, Rep. Harriet Hageman, won her seat in 2022 with Trump’s endorsement. She faces a primary challenger who has criticized her for not being loyal enough to the president.
Why It Matters: The outcome of this race will signal whether Trump’s endorsement still carries weight in Republican primaries—a key factor heading into November.
Maryland: Moore Addresses Democratic Policy Challenges
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, a potential 2028 presidential contender, addressed the need for changes in Democratic policies, saying:
“Any Democratic policy that’s not focusing on what people are feeling right now and the status quo protection has got to go.”
Why It Matters: Moore’s comments reflect a growing frustration among Democrats that the party’s message isn’t resonating with voters on economic issues.
The Bottom Line
Today’s primaries in Alaska, California, Florida, and Wyoming will set the stage for the November midterms. The outcomes will reveal which wing of each party is ascendant—and what issues are driving turnout in key battleground states.
With less than 80 days until the midterms, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The join the effort to build better communities and a better America starts with you. Visit Fight for the People PAC and Democrats.org today and sign up, to give or do what you can to make America better for all.
Axios: “Politics & Policy” (August 17, 2026)
Wikipedia: “Dan Sullivan (U.S. senator)”
Ballotpedia: “Harriet Hageman”
Brennan Center: “Redistricting in Florida” (2026)
National Conference of State Legislatures: “Alaska Ranked-Choice Voting” (2026)
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