Despite Nikki Haley dropping out of the Republican race, her popularity has not waned, as evident in the recent Ohio Republican Senate primary where a candidate endorsed by Trump emerged victorious.
In Tuesday’s primary elections, both Donald Trump and Joe Biden secured more delegates, fueling anticipation for a potential rematch in November.
Their initial triumphs unfolded in Ohio, accompanied by a closely watched Senate race, as well as in Illinois and Kansas. Additionally, Trump clinched the Republican primary in Florida, where Democrats did not hold a similar contest.
Even though Nikki Haley, the former South Carolina governor and presidential candidate, had withdrawn from the race, she still managed to garner a notable portion of the Republican vote in Ohio, Illinois, and Florida.
With both the president and former president having secured sufficient delegates to clinch their respective party nominations, most of their opponents have bowed out of the race. Trump’s final Republican contender, his former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, concluded her presidential bid following Super Tuesday. Similarly, Biden’s underdog challenger, Democratic congressman Dean Phillips, also withdrew from contention.
With the presidential primary contests settled, candidates are now directing their focus towards campaigning in pivotal swing states crucial for victory in the November general election.
Biden recently toured Arizona and Nevada, aiming to solidify support among young and Latino voters, pivotal demographics for his re-election bid. By emphasizing economic policies and criticizing Trump’s stance on immigration and abortion, Biden aims to sway undecided voters and reinvigorate enthusiasm among his 2020 supporter base.
Democrats expressing dissatisfaction with Biden’s Gaza conflict handling are rallying behind Marianne Williamson in Arizona, as she advocates for a permanent ceasefire. Meanwhile, pro-Palestinian demonstrators in Ohio are advocating for supporters to abstain from voting or “Leave It Blank”.
Trump, amidst ongoing legal challenges, continues to court controversy on the campaign trail. His recent remarks insinuating that Jewish Democratic voters betray their religion and Israel sparked outrage. Trump’s campaign strategy includes nationwide rallies and fundraising efforts, with a notable emphasis on glorifying Capitol rioters from January 6th as heroes.
In key states like Illinois, Ohio, and California, several down-ballot races have garnered significant attention and contention.
Ohio
In Ohio, Bernie Moreno, endorsed by Trump, has secured victory in the Republican US Senate primary, setting the stage for a showdown with Democratic incumbent Sherrod Brown in November, according to AP projections. Moreno, a wealthy former car dealer without prior elected experience, emerged as the frontrunner in pre-election polls, narrowly surpassing state senator Matt Dolan and secretary of state Frank LaRose.
Dolan, backed by establishment Republicans including Governor Mike DeWine, faced tough competition despite his family’s ownership of the Cleveland Guardians baseball team.
Moreno’s candidacy faced scrutiny over his qualifications and lack of political experience. Additionally, his past endorsement of strongly anti-LGBTQ+ policies raised concerns. Further controversy arose from an Associated Press report revealing the use of his work email to create an account on an adult website in 2008, a claim Moreno vehemently denied.
Republicans view Brown’s Senate seat as a potential win in November, given Ohio’s rightward shift in recent years. Brown remains the lone Democrat holding statewide office in Ohio, making his reelection bid a target for GOP efforts.
Illinois
In Illinois, the AP projects that 82-year-old Democratic incumbent Congressman Danny Davis will retain his seat in November after successfully fending off a progressive challenge. Davis received endorsements from Governor JB Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. However, he faced formidable competition from community organizer and gun-control advocate Kina Collins.
