Voters in Michigan are heading to the polls Tuesday for primary elections that include a pivotal Democratic Senate race, part of a larger slate of contests across five states that will determine general election matchups.
In Michigan, the race to succeed retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters is a central focus. The primary pits moderate Rep. Haley Stevens against progressive Dr. Abdul El-Sayed. The winner will face Republican Rep. Mike Rogers in November, in a contest that could influence which party controls the Senate next year. Michigan also features competitive races for governor and two U.S. House districts.
Elsewhere, primary elections are taking place in four other states:
Missouri: The Democratic primary for the 1st Congressional District features a rematch between former Rep. Cori Bush and Rep. Wesley Bell, who defeated her two years ago. Republicans are also competing in several districts, hoping to flip seats in a state where congressional maps have been redrawn.
Virginia: Three Republicans are vying for the chance to challenge incumbent Democratic Sen. Mark Warner, who is seeking his fourth term. Several House races are also on the ballot, including contests in the 7th and 8th Districts.
Kansas: With the state's Democratic governor termed out, three Democrats and seven Republicans are running to replace her. In the Senate race, 11 Democrats are seeking to unseat Republican Sen. Roger Marshall, though a Democrat has not won a Senate seat in Kansas since 1932.
Washington: In this state's primary system, the top two vote-getters in each race, regardless of party affiliation, advance to the general election. Key races include contests in the 3rd Congressional District, where eight candidates are challenging incumbent Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, and the 4th District, where an open seat is available following the retirement of Republican Rep. Dan Newhouse.