️ The 2026 US midterm primary season, where voters select candidates for the Republican and Democratic parties, has begun with votes in Texas, North Carolina, and Arkansas.

️ The polls opened just four days after the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran, sparking a regional war that has seen retaliatory strikes across the Middle East. The conflict has left hundreds dead, including at least 787 in Iran, six US military personnel, and several civilians in the Gulf region.

️ The war has touched on several issues expected to dominate the midterm elections, with Democrats highlighting concerns over US affordability and Republicans grappling with President Donald Trump’s “America First” pledges amid military actions.

️ Tuesday’s election results will provide an early gauge of voter sentiment ahead of the November midterms, which will determine whether Republicans maintain their slim control of the Senate and House of Representatives.

️ A key test is in Texas, where Democrats hope to win a statewide office for the first time since 1994. The race between Democratic hopeful James Talarico and Republican challenger Ken Paxton could offer Democrats a chance to flip a Senate seat.

️ Talarico has cautiously addressed the Iran war, posting “No More Forever Wars,” while Paxton defended Trump’s strikes. In North Carolina, progressive candidate Nida Allam linked the war to her opponent Valerie Foushee’s support from defense contractors and AIPAC.

️ The war has overlain, rather than transformed, core election issues such as the cost of living, immigration, artificial intelligence, and healthcare.

Source: www.aljazeera.com