The results of the recent Republican primary elections have highlighted former President Donald Trump’s enduring influence over the GOP. Candidates endorsed by Trump secured victories across the board in primary contests held in four states, reaffirming his status as a key figure within the party.
The wins for Trump-backed candidates were particularly striking in several high-profile races that were anticipated to be competitive but ended in decisive victories. Dave Carney, a veteran Republican consultant, emphasized the importance of Trump’s endorsement, stating, “With all things equal, you want the president’s endorsement. End of story.”
One notable example of Trump’s impact was in Nevada, where his last-minute endorsement propelled Army veteran Sam Brown to a commanding victory in the GOP Senate primary. Brown, who suffered severe injuries during his service in Afghanistan, defeated his main rival, Jeff Gunter, by more than 40 points. This race is critical as it could determine whether Republicans regain control of the Senate.
In South Carolina, Rep. Nancy Mace overcame a significant primary challenge to secure renomination for the 1st Congressional District. Mace’s victory was facilitated by Trump’s endorsement, which came after she endorsed him and campaigned for him earlier this year. Two years ago, Mace had faced a Trump-backed challenger after criticizing him for the January 6 Capitol attack but managed to win narrowly. This time, with Trump’s support, she easily defeated her opponents.
Trump’s influence was also evident in other races. In South Carolina’s 4th District, Rep. William Timmons narrowly survived a challenge from state Rep. Adam Morgan, with a Republican source acknowledging that Timmons would likely have lost without Trump’s backing. Similarly, state Rep. Austin Theriault, a former NASCAR driver, won his primary by a substantial margin with Trump’s endorsement.
In North Dakota, Trump’s support helped Rep. Kelly Armstrong fend off a challenge from Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller in the race to succeed GOP Gov. Doug Burgum. Burgum had backed Miller, but Armstrong’s victory underscored Trump’s sway in the state.
Republican strategist Lance Trover noted that the party remains firmly under Trump’s influence, highlighting a more unified GOP as it approaches the general election. Trover remarked, “I think you’re seeing more and more of a unified Republican Party as we inch forward toward the general election.”
While Trump’s endorsements have proven pivotal in primary contests, Republicans faced a setback in Ohio’s special congressional election. State Sen. Michael Rulli narrowly defeated Democrat Michael Kripchak, an Air Force veteran, by less than 10 points, a significant swing in favor of the Democrats compared to previous margins in the district. The National Republican Congressional Committee downplayed the result, attributing it to low turnout and emphasizing confidence in their performance in the upcoming general elections.
Overall, the recent primaries have reinforced Trump’s role as a kingmaker within the Republican Party, with his endorsements carrying significant weight in determining the outcomes of key races. As the GOP moves toward the general election, Trump’s influence is expected to remain a central factor in shaping the party’s strategy and direction.
