Primaries test Trump's sway over Republican voters
PUBLISHED May 19, 2026, 1:16 AM ET
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Washington — Republican primary contests on Tuesday tested former President Donald Trump's influence as voters in Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon and Pennsylvania cast ballots; Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky faced a Trump-backed challenger, Ed Gallrein, while Alabama Republicans competed for an open U.S. Senate nomination following Tommy Tuberville's decision to run for governor. This week the endorsements led to intensified primary campaigns, with Trump publicly backing candidates such as Barry Moore in Alabama and Gallrein in Kentucky; incumbents who opposed Trump emphasized independent records. Results from Tuesday will determine nominees, affect party alignment, and inform strategies ahead of upcoming general-election campaigns and subsequent primary contests.
By Najma A. | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Trump publicly endorses candidates in multiple Republican primary races.
- Rep. Thomas Massie is challenged in Kentucky by Trump-backed Ed Gallrein.
- Alabama's open U.S. Senate seat draws several Republican contenders following Tuberville's gubernatorial bid.
- Voters in Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Oregon and Pennsylvania cast primary ballots on Tuesday.
- Primary results shape nominee lists and indicate Trump's ongoing influence within GOP primaries.
News Intelligence
- These primaries aren't just about who's running. They're a measure of Trump's influence in the GOP. If his picks win, it could shape the party's future. Check your state's primary results to see how this plays out locally.
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