North Carolina and Texas Voters Cast Their Ballots in Pivotal Senate Primaries

March 3, 2026 | Ruthie Klein

On Tuesday, voters in two states head to the polls for U.S. Senate primaries that could set the tone for pivotal matchups in the upcoming general election. In North Carolina, Democrats are eyeing an opening to turn a Republican-held seat blue, while in Texas, the Republican primary candidates are emphasizing their allegiance to former President Donald Trump, highlighting the party's internal dynamics as they navigate the post-Trump political landscape.

In North Carolina, the Democrats view the retirement of Senator Richard Burr as a strategic opportunity to shift the balance of power. The race has attracted a diverse field of candidates, each vying to represent the party in what is expected to be a fiercely contested general election. National Democratic figures have thrown their weight behind their preferred candidates, hoping to rally the base in a state that has seen fluctuating political loyalties in recent years.

Meanwhile, in Texas, loyalty to Trump remains a critical litmus test for Republican candidates seeking to capture a Senate seat. The Republican primary has been characterized by fierce competition among candidates striving to prove their commitment to Trump-era policies and rhetoric. The outcome could reflect how deeply Trump's political style has permeated the party and may offer insight into the broader voter sentiment as the midterms approach.

Both primaries are seen as bellwethers for the national political climate. In North Carolina, Democrats are seeking to build momentum in a state that has shown an openness to both parties in statewide elections. Texas Republicans, on the other hand, are showcasing how former President Trump’s influence continues to shape candidate platforms and voter expectations in one of the country's largest and most politically influential states.

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