Trump notches more GOP primary wins, but big midterm questions remain
President Donald Trump continues to assert his influence within the Republican Party, successfully defeating key opponents in recent primaries. Despite his victories, concerns linger regarding his low approval ratings and the impact of ongoing issues like the war with Iran on the upcoming general election. Trump's ability to eliminate rivals and maintain support among his base suggests he remains a formidable force in GOP politics.
- ▪Trump defeated five incumbent Republican state senators in Indiana who opposed his redistricting push.
- ▪Rep. Thomas Massie lost to Trump-backed Ed Gallrein in Kentucky's most expensive House primary in history.
- ▪Concerns about Trump's low approval ratings and the war with Iran could affect base turnout in the general election.
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2026 ElectionTrump notches more GOP primary wins, but big midterm questions remainThe president successfully unseated one of his biggest Republican foes on Tuesday in Kentucky, while a Trump endorsement in Texas left GOP senators concerned.Listen to this article with a free account00:0000:00U.S. President Donald Trump arrives to speak at Verst Logistics in Hebron, Kentucky, in March.Jim Watson / AFP via Getty Images fileShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 19, 2026, 11:40 PM EDTBy Matt Dixon, Bridget Bowman and Henry J.
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