With a slim majority in the U.S. Senate at 51-49, Democrats face the challenge of retaining control as they defend seats in Republican-leaning states during the Nov. 5 elections.
Key races to observe for the 2024 election include:
Arizona: Potential Three-Way Contest
Senator Kyrsten Sinema, an independent aligning with Democrats, remains undecided about reelection. Her divergence from Democratic progressives may lead to a three-way race, including Democratic Congressman Ruben Gallego and a Republican contender. Republican candidates feature Kari Lake, endorsed by former President Trump in her 2022 gubernatorial bid, and Sheriff Mark Lamb.
Montana: Democratic Seat at Risk
Senator Jon Tester, a Democrat, campaigns to keep his seat in a state favouring Trump in 2020. Republican Tim Sheehy, a military veteran and aerial firefighting company founder gains Senate GOP support. After Trump endorsed Sheehy on Feb. 9, Matt Rosendale exited the race, having previously contested Tester in 2018.
New Jersey: Seeking Menendez’s Successor
Amid Senator Bob Menendez’s bribery charge indictment, Democrats including Tammy Murphy, Andy Kim, and activist Patricia Campos-Medina are considering running for his seat.
Ohio: Democratic Defense in a Trump State
Senator Sherrod Brown aims to retain his seat in a Trump-supporting state. Republican candidates include Secretary of State Frank LaRose, Senator Matt Dolan, and businessman Bernie Moreno, who received Trump’s endorsement.
Pennsylvania: McCormick’s Comeback Attempt
In Pennsylvania, a competitive battleground, Democrat Bob Casey seeks reelection against Republican Dave McCormick, a former hedge fund executive who lost the 2022 GOP primary to Mehmet Oz, Trump’s pick, who then was defeated by Democrat John Fetterman.
Utah: Republican Primary Battle
With Senator Mitt Romney not seeking re-election, Utah’s race likely remains Republican, featuring a competitive primary. Candidates include former State House Speaker Brad Wilson, U.S. Representative John Curtis, and Brent Orrin Hatch, son of the long-serving predecessor to Romney.
