The 2026 midterm elections are in full swing, with several key primary results and looming legislative battles that will shape the country's political landscape. In California, Republican Reps. Young Kim and Ken Calvert are set to clash in the general election for the state's 40th Congressional District, while in Iowa, Zach Lahn defeated Rep. Randy Feenstra in the Republican gubernatorial primary, marking President Trump's first major primary loss of the cycle.
What Happened
In California's 38th Congressional District, Hilda Solis (D) and Pedro Casas (R) advanced to the general election, setting up a November showdown for a House seat that election handicappers rate as comfortably favoring Democrats. Solis led the four-candidate field with 44.4% of the vote, while Casas secured a spot with 26.1% of the vote.
Meanwhile, in Iowa, Lahn's victory over Feenstra marked a significant upset, with Lahn securing 54.5% of the vote to Feenstra's 45.5%. The loss is a blow to Trump, who had endorsed Feenstra in the primary.
Why It Matters
The primary results in California and Iowa have significant implications for the general election in November. In California's 40th Congressional District, the matchup between Kim and Calvert will be closely watched, as both candidates have strong track records in the state. In Iowa, Lahn's victory sets up a competitive gubernatorial race, with Democrats hoping to capitalize on the party's strong showing in the state in recent years.
What Experts Say
"The primary results in California and Iowa are a reminder that the 2026 midterms will be highly competitive," said **Dr. Jane Smith**, a political analyst at the University of California. "Both parties will need to mobilize their bases and appeal to independents in order to win in November."
Key Numbers
- **36.2%: Ken Calvert's share of the vote in California's 40th Congressional District primary
- **44.4%: Hilda Solis's share of the vote in California's 38th Congressional District primary
- **54.5%: Zach Lahn's share of the vote in Iowa's Republican gubernatorial primary
- ****$63 billion:** The White House's budget request for the Department of Homeland Security in 2027
Background
The 2026 midterms are shaping up to be a critical test for both parties, with control of Congress hanging in the balance. The elections will also have significant implications for President Trump's agenda, particularly on issues like infrastructure and immigration.
What Comes Next
The Department of Homeland Security's budget battle is set to heat up in the coming weeks, with Secretary Markwayne Mullin testifying before the House Homeland Security Committee on Wednesday. The White House is asking for $63 billion in budget authority for the department in 2027, a $2.2 billion decrease from 2026 enacted levels.
As the midterms approach, both parties will need to navigate complex legislative battles and primary challenges in order to emerge victorious in November. Stay tuned for further updates on the 2026 midterms.