In Kentucky, Florida, and Pennsylvania, key primary races will determine state control and hint toward voter sentiments for 2024. Here are the most important elections to track.
Kentucky GOP Gubernatorial Primary
The state GOP is looking to overthrow popular Democrat Governor Andy Beshear, who enjoys a surprisingly high approval rating even in Trump territory.
Former President Trump has weighed in, throwing his support behind Kentucky Attorney General Daniel Cameron. Cameron has consistently led in polls, but turnout is expected to be extremely low, which puts the race in toss up territory.
He’ll face former UN ambassador Kelly Craft, the wife of coal magnate Joseph Craft who has spent considerably on advertising in the state; and Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles, who has plenty of grassroots support.
Pennsylvania State House Special Election
State house races typically fly under the radar, but this one has drawn national attention and an endorsement from President Joe Biden.
Republican Katie Ford will battle Democrat Heather Boyd for former state Representative Mike Zabel’s (D) seat, who stepped down due to sexual harassment allegations.
The state currently has a Democrat trifecta: the party controls both chambers of the state legislature and the governor’s mansion. But a win by Ford could flip the House to Republicans.
Biden, highlighting the national implications of the state election, endorsed Boyd with a reference to abortion rights.
“With control of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on the line, this race will determine the future of so many fundamental freedoms that Pennsylvanians hold dear,” he said in a statement.
“Heather is an experienced public servant who will protect a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions, stand up for common sense gun safety laws and expand access to voting rights.”
Jacksonville, Florida Mayoral Runoff
In an election that could hint toward Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ swaying power ahead of his 2024 presidential campaign announcement, local news anchor Donna Deegan (D) is up against JAX Chamber CEO Daniel Davis (R).
Both DeSantis and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) have backed and stumped for Davis.
Polls show the race is effectively a tie.
