Biden, Trump Secure More Delegates, Face Internal Dissent
As the presidential nominating season draws to a close, presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden and his Republican rival, Donald Trump, continue to accumulate delegates, while also encountering dissent within their respective parties.
Kentucky and Oregon Primaries
In Tuesday's primaries in Kentucky and Oregon, Biden and Trump emerged victorious, further solidifying their positions as frontrunners. While these victories hold largely symbolic significance, they offer insights into the sentiments of the Democratic and Republican bases.
Democratic Base
Despite securing the nomination, Biden has faced protest votes stemming from his handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict, with approximately 18% of Kentucky Democratic voters casting their ballots for uncommitted. This indicates lingering discontent among some Democrats, potentially signaling challenges in unifying the party behind Biden.
Republican Base
Trump, too, has faced internal opposition, with thousands still casting votes for Nikki Haley, despite her withdrawal from the race. In Kentucky, Haley garnered roughly 6% of the vote, suggesting that she retains a degree of support within the Republican electorate.
Remaining Primaries
With eight presidential nominating contests remaining, the race for delegates continues. Democrats will compete in Idaho, the District of Columbia, Guam, and the Virgin Islands, while both parties will face off in Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, and South Dakota.
Other Notable Elections
Beyond the presidential primaries, voters in Kentucky, Oregon, Georgia, and Idaho also cast ballots in state primaries for House races and other local contests. In California, Republicans Vince Fong and Mike Boudreaux will compete in a runoff election to fill former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy's seat.
Georgia and Oregon Legal Races
Georgia's Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis, who is prosecuting Trump in an election interference case, emerged victorious in her Democratic primary. Judge Scott McAfee, who is overseeing the case, also won reelection.
In Oregon's Multnomah County, the progressive district attorney who took office during the 2020 social justice movement is facing a challenge from a candidate advocating a tougher approach to crime. The outcome of this race will be closely watched as it reflects the ongoing debate over criminal justice reform.
