Tuesday Primaries: Key Races in California, Iowa, and Beyond

Six states—California, Iowa, Montana, New Jersey, South Dakota, and New Mexico—hold primary elections on Tuesday, with the most attention on California and Iowa. In California, the top-two primary system will determine the gubernatorial contenders and shape five newly Democratic-leaning congressional districts.

The governor's race features a crowded field of over 60 candidates, with leading contenders including Democrat Xavier Becerra, former Health and Human Services secretary; Democrat Tom Steyer, a billionaire philanthropist; and Republican Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host endorsed by President Trump. Becerra is seen as the strongest political candidate, while Steyer has invested over $213 million of his own money.

Hilton focuses on affordable housing, tech, and film industry revival. In Iowa, Republican voters will choose a nominee for governor in an open race, with Rep.

Randy Feenstra endorsed by Trump but facing a challenge from businessman Zach Lahn. The Democratic gubernatorial candidate is unopposed State Auditor Rob Sand.

Iowa Democrats also have a competitive Senate primary between state Rep. Josh Turek and state Sen.

Claire Wahls, aiming to flip a seat held by Republicans. In New Jersey, Congressional District 7 features four Democrats challenging Republican Rep.

Tom Kean Jr., who has missed over 100 House votes due to medical issues. Montana has two competitive races: an open Senate seat with independent candidate Seth Bodnar outraising major party candidates, and an open House seat in the 1st Congressional District, where Democrat Sam Forstag is a frontrunner.

These races could determine control of Congress in November.