Primaries in Maine, South Carolina, Nevada, and North Dakota will offer clues about how much tolerance voters have for candidates embroiled in controversies, while testing President Donald Trump’s sway in a crowded Republican primary.

Maine Senate Primary

The Democratic Senate primary in Maine is a key contest to watch, as expected nominee Graham Platner faces controversy over his past online comments and a tattoo tied to Nazi symbolism. Despite these revelations, Platner has held a commanding lead in primary polls.

Platner has disputed claims of physical intimidation and said the most serious allegations were false and politically motivated. His campaign will be closely watched to see if primary participants signal they have reservations with his candidacy.

South Carolina Governor’s Race

A crowded Republican primary for governor in South Carolina will serve as the next test of Trump’s ability to sway the minds of GOP voters. Trump has endorsed Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette, who also has the backing of term-limited Gov. Henry McMaster, a longtime Trump ally.

The performance of Evette might offer clues on how much the president’s preference matters to GOP voters looking ahead to the 2028 presidential nominating fight, when the state could play a crucial role.

Nevada Governor’s Race

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, a Republican, will first need to move past a field of six primary challengers as he seeks a second term. The Silver State’s governor’s race is expected to be a hard-fought one between Lombardo and Democrat Aaron Ford, the state attorney general.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.