Six states hold primary elections Tuesday pivotal for Congress control

Americans in half a dozen states are slated to cast ballots Tuesday in primary elections that will be pivotal in determining the balance of power in Congress. Primaries formative in determining who will be competing in November's midterm elections are taking place Tuesday in a total of six states – California, Iowa, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico and South Dakota. All states except California will be voting on nominees for US Senate and House seats.

Senate races

A total of 35 Senate seats will be contested in November, and Tuesday's contests will determine candidates for five of those races. Among these, only Iowa is considered moderately competitive, with incumbent Sen. Joni Ernst not seeking another term. The Senate is currently split 53-45 with Republicans in the majority. Control of the Senate may be in play for Democrats as Trump's approval ratings hit historic lows amid inflation exacerbated by his war on Iran.

House primaries

California will hold the highest number of House primaries with 52 seats contested. House Speaker Mike Johnson holds a razor-thin five-seat majority (217-212). Democrats are seeking to end Republican control, with 19 seats considered toss-ups.

Redistricting impact

Trump has appealed to Republican state officials to redraw congressional maps to favor Republicans. Texas was the first to heed the call, starting a gerrymandering arms race. California voters approved a redrawn House district map amid concerns over Trump's redistricting push.