The Next Big Races Between Moderates and Progressives Are in Pivotal Midwestern States

Democrats in several Midwestern states are gearing up for important primary elections this summer. In Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin, voters will choose between two very different kinds of Democratic candidates — moderates and progressives. Moderates tend to work within the system and seek support from a wide range of voters. Progressives push for bigger changes and often reject money from large corporations. The results could have a major impact on which party controls Congress.

In Minnesota, U.S. Representative Angie Craig and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are competing for the Democratic Senate nomination. They have argued about who can beat Republicans, whether they take money from big businesses, and how hard each would fight against President Donald Trump. Flanagan is backed by progressive senators Bernie Sanders and Elizabeth Warren. She criticized what she called 'secretive dark money groups' that she says are working to help Craig win.

Craig argues that her campaign focuses on building broad support across Minnesota. She warned that the state is a true swing state and Democrats cannot take the Senate seat for granted. Craig also pointed out that Flanagan raised money from major companies in a previous role. She says that if Flanagan wins, Republicans would use an ongoing government fraud investigation to attack her.

The Minnesota primary is August 11, the same day as Wisconsin's primary. Michigan votes one week earlier, on August 4. In Michigan, progressive Abdul El-Sayed faces Representative Haley Stevens for the Democratic Senate nomination. In Wisconsin, democratic socialist Francesca Hong has surged in the governor's race against more traditional Democrats.

Progressives hope to prove their message about economic fairness works in states beyond big cities like New York and Denver. Democratic leaders worry that progressive candidates may be too far left for most voters in swing states. They fear Democrats could lose winnable races needed to take back Congress. The debate over strategy is dividing the party heading into the fall elections.

The Upper Midwest has a long history of populist politics focused on the concerns of ordinary working people. Professor Steven Schier of Carleton College explained that the region has produced both left-wing and right-wing populists for decades. He noted that no matter who wins the August primaries, the results will send ripples through national politics. Voters and party leaders across the country will be watching closely.