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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 18, 2026Miami-Dade

Primary elections in Florida, Alaska, Wyoming, and California shape congressional control

Voters in four states head to the polls Tuesday for primary elections that feature newly redrawn congressional maps, high-profile challenges between political establishment and progressive candidates, and races involving scandal-plagued contenders. These contests serve as key indicators for the upcoming midterm elections that will determine the balance of power in Congress.

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Why It Matters

The outcomes of these primary elections will finalize the candidate slates for the fall midterms, directly impacting the competition for control of the U.S. House and Senate.

Key Facts

  • Florida's congressional map was redrawn by a GOP-led effort, resulting in new district boundaries.
  • In Florida, Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz is facing former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick in a majority-Black district.
  • Alaska uses an open primary system where all candidates appear on one ballot, with the top four advancing to a ranked-vote general election.
  • The Alaska Senate race includes two candidates named Dan Sullivan, leading to concerns about voter confusion.
  • Wyoming has open seats for governor, U.S. Senate, and U.S. House for the first time in over 30 years.
  • In California's 14th District, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) super PAC has spent over $2 million against candidate Aisha Wahab.
  • Rep. Cory Mills is facing an ethics investigation regarding allegations of assault and campaign finance violations.
  • Former Rep. Madison Cawthorn and former Rep. Chris Collins are mounting comeback bids in Florida.

Who's Mentioned

organizationAmerican Israel Public Affairs Committee“Super PAC involved in California campaign spending”personDaniel J. Sullivan Jr.“Candidate in Alaska Senate race”personByron Donalds“Republican Florida Representative running for governor”personSheila Cherfilus-McCormick“Former U.S. Representative running for her former seat”personRon DeSantis“Term-limited Governor of Florida”personDebbie Wasserman Schultz“Democratic U.S. Representative seeking 12th term”personDan Sullivan“Republican U.S. Senator from Alaska”