Midterm Primaries Kick Off in Texas, North Carolina Amid Voting Issues
The 2026 midterm election season officially commenced on Tuesday with primaries in Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas, setting the stage for a pivotal political cycle. These elections mark the first statewide contests of the year, drawing national attention to key races and voter turnout. In Texas, the voting process faced challenges, with reports from Dallas County of voters being turned away, leading officials to keep polling places open for an additional two hours for the Democratic primary to ensure all voters could participate. Key races are under scrutiny, particularly in Texas where historical trends show competitive general elections even in years when Democratic presidential candidates win nationally. Meanwhile, North Carolina features a critical open U.S. Senate race, as incumbent Republican Senator Thom Tillis is not seeking re-election. This has created a highly competitive primary for both Democrats and Republicans in a traditional battleground state that voted for former President Donald Trump but also elected a Democratic governor. The outcomes of these primaries will shape the general election battlefield for control of Congress. The day's events, including the voting irregularities and the high-stakes Senate primary, underscore the intense political polarization and the importance of these early contests in the broader midterm landscape.
Prefer swipe-first reading?
Install the app to keep reading with faster loads and a smoother mobile experience.
Sources
In today’s newsletter: The candidates at risk in today’s primaries. Trump won’t put an end date to the Iran war. And the Supreme Court blocks California restrictions on schools notifying parents about students’ transgender status. Here’s what to know today. ... Texas, Arkansas and North Carolina are kicking off the 2026 midterm ...
Add AP News on Google Add AP News as your preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Share ... Polls are beginning to close in primary elections in three states, in a vote that marks the official beginning of the midterm elections. Voters cast ballots in North Carolina, Arkansas and Texas...
Here's what Texas voters should be paying attention to on primary Election Day | KUT Radio, Austin's NPR Station
Henson noted that it wasn’t ... in a primary year. The most recent examples were in 2008, when Barack Obama won the presidency, and in 2020, when Joe Biden defeated Donald Trump in his first bid for reelection. In both cases, however, a majority of Texans voted for the Republican presidential candidate in the general election. Also in both cycles, incumbent Republican Sen. John Cornyn won reelection. The Texas Newsroom's Rachel Osier ...
“We will continue to evaluate the situation on the ground and are calling for an extension of voting hours to ensure all Texans’ voices are heard in this critical election,” Talarico said in a news release. ... Jasmine Crockett, Talarico’s main primary opponent, said in a statement ...
The News will provide live election results this evening when the polls close at 7 p.m. Results will be updated throughout the evening for statewide races and Dallas, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Kaufman, Rockwall and Tarrant counties. ... Get the latest breaking news from North Texas and beyond. ... By signing up, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Dallas County will keep polling places for the Democratic primary ...
Voters wait in line to cast their ... in the North Carolina primary election in Durham, N.C., on Feb. 28, 2026. Rachel Jessen/Bloomberg via Getty Images hide caption toggle caption Rachel Jessen/Bloomberg via Getty Images · Some of the first statewide primaries in the nation ...
Any registered North Carolina voter can see a sample ballot in the "Your Sample Ballot" section of their Voter Search profile on the state Board of Elections website. Check for that ballot here. With current Sen. Thom Tillis (R) opting not to run for reelection, the doors are wide open for his replacement. Both Democrats and Republicans are hosting primaries ...
North Carolina, a traditional battleground where Democrats have been able to hold the governor’s seat even as voters helped send President Donald Trump to the White House, is one of three states kicking off this year’s midterm elections, along with Texas and Arkansas. Tuesday’s slate of primaries ...
Fact Checks
Related news
Elon Musk Navigates AI Concerns and Political Controversies Amid Public Scrutiny
Elon Musk has addressed various controversies, including his political activities and concerns about artificial intelligence. He admitted to getting 'carried away' with politics, specifically referencing his involvement with DOGE and the Trump administration, while also defending his stance against media criticism. In separate discussions, Musk has explored the future of AI, arguing that while risks exist, they should not halt progress because AI could lead to an "age of amazing abundance." He also suggested that rival AI labs should be given time to operate, even those in China, emphasizing the need for patience in technological development.
Survey Shows Americans See Politics as Greatest Safety Risk
A recent survey reveals that Americans are significantly more likely than people in other countries to identify politics as the greatest threat to their personal safety. Data suggests that one in ten Americans views politics as the biggest risk they face in life, which is ten times the global average. This widespread concern about political instability is compounded by warnings from federal agencies. Secret Service Director Sean Curran has described the current threat level his agency faces as "off the charts," citing numerous cases involving targeted attacks against US government officials.
Arizona Primaries Show GOP Strength and Intense Democratic Battles
The Republican party demonstrated significant influence in Arizona primaries, with Andy Biggs winning the nomination for governor. This victory sets the stage for high-stakes races in November and reflects Trump's GOP muscle in the state. In contrast, Democrats engaged in fierce battles for representation. Key races included a tight rematch between Amish Shah and Marlene Galán-Woods for a House seat, illustrating the close competition in Arizona's swing political landscape.
Anas Sarwar steps down as Scottish Labour leader to join Andy Burnham's government
Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar is resigning his leadership role to take up a ministerial position within Andy Burnham's government. The decision involves him leaving the Scottish Parliament and swapping his seat in Holyrood for a role in the House of Lords or as a UK minister. This transition has reportedly plunged Scottish Labour into internal conflict, described by some as a 'civil war,' while First Minister John Swinney criticized the expected appointment as hypocrisy.
Meghan McCain Warns GOP of 'Huge Problem' If Democrats Adopt Mamdani Tone
Meghan McCain, daughter of former Senator John McCain, warned Republicans that if the 2028 Democratic presidential nominee adopts a tone similar to New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani's, the Republican party would face a 'huge problem.' This commentary highlighted concerns about the political climate and the perceived threat posed by certain Democratic approaches. The discussion also touched on the legacy of John McCain, who passed away recently, and his close relationship with figures like Senator Lindsey Graham.
Michigan Senate Hopeful Abdul El-Sayed Faces Scrutiny Over Political Views and Campaign
Democratic candidate Abdul El-Sayed, a hopeful for the Michigan Senate, has generated significant media attention following his campaign activities and controversial statements. He criticized American politics as a 'disease' while simultaneously engaging in public spats with media outlets like CNN and dodging questions about remarks concerning the death of Ali Khamenei. El-Sayed has received support from progressive groups, including the 314 Action Fund, which advocates for bold, systemic change in politics. His campaign has also featured in discussions about the battle between the far-left and the Democratic Party, alongside reports on his fundraising efforts and reactions to campaign speeches going viral online.
Take Yomuyo with you
Download the mobile app for personalized headlines and quick access to breaking stories.