Crucial Midterm Primaries in New Hampshire and Rhode Island Set the Stage for Congressional Control

Voters in New Hampshire and Rhode Island are heading to the polls this week to select their respective Democratic and Republican candidates for the upcoming United States midterm elections. As one of the final showdowns before the nation decides which party will control both chambers of the US Congress, these contests highlight major campaign themes, including the varying degrees of alignment with Donald Trump and fierce primary challenges against incumbent Democrats.

In New Hampshire, the spotlight is on the race to replace retiring Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen. US Representative Chris Pappas leads the Democratic field, though his lead has narrowed amidst a challenge from democratic socialist Karishma Manzur, who has voiced criticism over US policy regarding Palestinians. Meanwhile, the Republican primary features John Sununu, a member of a prominent political dynasty, facing off against former US Senator Scott Brown and seven other opponents, as Sununu attempts to distance himself slightly from Trump despite receiving the former president's backing.

Over in Rhode Island, the primary focus shifts to the gubernatorial race rather than congressional seats. Vulnerable Democratic Governor Dan McKee is locked in a difficult rematch against pharmacy executive Helena Foulkes, with voter resentment largely fueled by economic fallout and traffic congestion stemming from a partially closed freeway bridge in Providence. On the Republican side, state trade association executive Aaron Guckian and former actress Elaine Pelino are competing for the GOP nomination.