Voters in six states are casting ballots in primary elections on Tuesday, selecting candidates who will advance to the general election contests in November. These races, spanning House, Senate, and gubernatorial contests, could significantly influence the balance of power in the next Congress.

Alabama is holding primaries for several House races. These contests were delayed after a Supreme Court decision that impacted the Voting Rights Act, leading to mid-decade redistricting in several Southern states. Republican Gov. Kay Ivey had pushed back primaries in the 1st, 2nd, 6th, and 7th districts following the court's ruling.

In Connecticut, voters are deciding on House and local races, alongside a primary challenge for Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont, who was first elected in 2018. The winner of the gubernatorial primary will face Republican Ryan Fazio in November. Governor Ned Lamont speaks in Hartford on July 20, 2026, to reassure voters about the safety and security of Connecticut elections despite recent national claims calling election security into doubt.

Minnesota's primary elections include contests for both parties to select successors for retiring Democratic Sen. Tina Smith and retiring Gov. Tim Walz. Several House races are also on the ballot, which could be pivotal in determining control of Congress.

South Carolina is conducting a special Republican primary to fill the vacancy on the party's Senate ticket created by the death of Sen. Lindsey Graham in July. Graham's sister, Darline Graham, who was appointed to complete the remainder of his term, is competing against several other notable candidates. Sen. Darline Graham Nordone participates in a ceremonial swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol on July 14, 2026.

Vermont voters are participating in several races, including the Democratic primary for governor. The winner will challenge incumbent Republican Gov. Phil Scott in the November general election. Vermont Governor Phil Scott speaks during an event.

In Wisconsin, Republican and Democratic candidates are competing for an open gubernatorial seat, the first since 2010, as the state's Democratic Gov. Tony Evers announced he would not seek re-election. Primaries in both parties for the House of Representatives could also influence the chamber's composition next year. Democratic Wisconsin Gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong votes in the primary election on Aug. 11, 2026.

One notable contest in Wisconsin's gubernatorial race involves a democratic socialist challenging the state's Democratic establishment. Elsewhere, in South Carolina, Darline Graham seeks a full term after being appointed to her brother's Senate seat.