Multiple State Senators Announce 2026 Primary Bids, Signaling Competitive Race

Several state and federal legislative races are heating up as candidates announce their runs and seek endorsements in various states. In West Virginia, Jack Reger is running for State Senate District 11, focusing on restoring education and community investment amid school closures and consolidations. Arkansas sees Trey "BoDirt" Bohannan challenging incumbent Senator Ron Caldwell in District 10, with Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders endorsing Bohannan, possibly to hinder Caldwell's bid for Senate president pro tempore. In Louisiana, state Rep. Julie Emerson has entered the Republican primary against U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, who faces backlash for voting to convict President Trump in 2021. Illinois Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi aims to move from the House to the Senate, emphasizing healthcare issues and government negotiations. Meanwhile, Hawaii State Senator Brenton Awa has declared his candidacy for Congress, seeking the GOP nomination for the second congressional district seat currently held by a Democrat.