The Divisive Missouri Primaries: A Tale of Two Parties
Missouri’s upcoming state primaries on August 6, 2024, have set the stage for a dramatic political showdown. While Republicans in the state demonstrate a united front in their loyalty to former President Donald Trump, the Democratic race reveals deep-seated divisions, particularly in their views on U.S. foreign policy. This article delves into the complexities of the Missouri primaries, examining the key players, the issues at stake, and what voters can expect as they head to the polls.
The Republican Unity: A Trump-Fueled Contest
Trump’s Influence on the Republican Candidates
In Missouri, the Republican primaries have turned into a battleground for proving loyalty to Trump. Despite the fierce competition, the overarching theme is clear: unwavering support for the former president. This unity is evident across various races, from the gubernatorial contest to the attorney general position and other down-ballot offices.
- Governor’s Race: Trump’s endorsements have significantly impacted the gubernatorial race. The former president has backed three candidates: Jay Ashcroft, Mike Kehoe, and Bill Eigel. Each of these candidates has touted their allegiance to Trump, making it a central theme of their campaigns.
- Attorney General Race: Trump’s dual endorsement of both incumbent Andrew Bailey and challenger Will Scharf underscores the importance of his influence. The candidates are vying to demonstrate who aligns more closely with Trump’s policies and vision.
Key Republican Figures and Their Campaigns
- Jay Ashcroft: The current Missouri Secretary of State and son of former Governor John Ashcroft, Jay Ashcroft entered the race with substantial financial backing. His campaign emphasizes continuity and loyalty to Trump.
- Mike Kehoe: With the endorsement of term-limited Governor Mike Parson and over $4 million raised, Kehoe’s campaign is well-funded. His American Dream PAC has allocated over $8 million for advertising, showcasing strong support within the party.
- Bill Eigel: An Air Force veteran and state senator, Eigel’s campaign has focused on grassroots support. His ads feature direct appeals to Trump’s base, reinforcing his commitment to the former president’s agenda.
The Democratic Divide: A Battle Over Policy
The High-Profile Challenge
The Democrats face a contentious primary, particularly in the race between Rep. Cori Bush and St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Wesley Bell. This contest symbolizes the broader ideological rift within the party, especially regarding U.S. foreign policy towards Israel.
- Cori Bush: Known for her progressive stance, Bush has faced significant opposition from a political action committee affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The PAC has spent over $8 million against her, highlighting the intense scrutiny she faces.
- Wesley Bell: Bell’s campaign has gained traction as a more moderate alternative, appealing to voters who are uncomfortable with Bush’s progressive policies, particularly her critical stance on Israel.
Financial and Political Support
- Progressive Support for Bush: Despite the heavy spending against her, Bush has received substantial backing from progressive groups and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. This support has helped her remain a formidable contender.
- Bell’s Local Appeal: Bell’s recognition as the St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney has bolstered his campaign, particularly in the areas of the district that fall within St. Louis County.
The Key Races to Watch
Governor’s Race
The Republican primary for governor is particularly crowded, with Trump endorsing multiple candidates. This race is a litmus test for the level of influence Trump still holds within the party.
- Jay Ashcroft: With his political lineage and substantial financial resources, Ashcroft is a strong contender.
- Mike Kehoe: Kehoe’s significant fundraising and the backing of the current governor make him a formidable opponent.
- Bill Eigel: Eigel’s grassroots campaign and military background appeal to a distinct segment of the Republican base.
Attorney General Race
The attorney general primary is another critical contest, with Trump endorsing both incumbent Andrew Bailey and challenger Will Scharf. This race will test the candidates’ abilities to leverage their connections to Trump while differentiating themselves from each other.
- Andrew Bailey: As the incumbent, Bailey has the advantage of experience and visibility.
- Will Scharf: Scharf’s role in Trump’s legal team gives him a unique edge, appealing to voters who prioritize legal prowess and loyalty to Trump.
Democratic Primary Dynamics
Cori Bush vs. Wesley Bell
The Bush-Bell primary represents the broader ideological battles within the Democratic Party, particularly on issues like U.S. foreign policy towards Israel.
- Bush’s Progressive Platform: Bush’s progressive stance has made her a target for significant opposition funding, but it has also garnered her strong support from like-minded voters and progressive groups.
- Bell’s Moderate Approach: Bell’s campaign appeals to Democrats seeking a more moderate approach, particularly in areas where Bush’s policies are seen as too radical.
Other Notable Races
U.S. Senate and House Races
- Senate Race: Republican Senator Josh Hawley runs unopposed in his primary, while Marine veteran Lucas Kunce holds a financial advantage over state Senator Karla May on the Democratic side.
- House Races: Former state Senator Bob Onder, endorsed by Trump, leads the pack in the race to replace retiring Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer. Other candidates include former state Senator Kurt Schaefer and State Rep. Justin Hicks.
What to Expect on Primary Day
Polling and Voting Details
- Polls Closing: Missouri state primaries will close at 8 p.m. ET.
- AP Coverage: The Associated Press will provide vote results and declare winners in contested primaries for various positions, including U.S. Senate, U.S. House, governor, and state legislature.
Voter Participation
- Voter Turnout: In previous primaries, voter turnout was 8% for Democrats and 15% for Republicans, with a small percentage of ballots cast before primary day.
- Registered Voters: As of November 2022, Missouri had nearly 4.3 million registered voters.
FAQs
What are the main issues dividing the Democratic candidates?
The primary issues revolve around U.S. foreign policy towards Israel, with Cori Bush taking a more progressive stance and Wesley Bell offering a moderate perspective.Why is Trump endorsing multiple candidates in the Republican primaries?
Trump’s multiple endorsements reflect his strategy to maintain influence over the party by supporting candidates who align with his policies and vision.How does voter turnout in Missouri’s primaries typically compare between parties?
Historically, Republican primaries see higher voter turnout compared to Democratic primaries, with significant engagement from Trump’s base.What is the significance of the governor’s race in Missouri?
The governor’s race is pivotal as it will determine the future leadership of the state, with significant implications for both local and national politics.
Conclusion
The Missouri state primaries on August 6, 2024, are a microcosm of the broader national political landscape. While Republicans showcase their unity through unwavering loyalty to Trump, the Democratic primaries highlight deep ideological divides. As voters head to the polls, the outcomes of these races will offer valuable insights into the future direction of both parties. The intense campaigns, heavy spending, and high-profile endorsements underscore the stakes in this pivotal election.
