Iowa Senate Primary Tests Schumer‑Backed Candidates as Democrats Seek Gains; Montana House Race Features Smokejumper

Midterm primaries are under way across the United States. In Iowa, Democrats face a competitive Senate primary. The party hopes to make gains or flip the seat. Candidates backed by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer are in the race. In Montana, a fire‑fighter turned smokejumper has entered the House primary. The Montana contest is also contested with multiple candidates. Both races illustrate Democratic efforts to expand representation. Observers will watch the outcomes for clues ahead of the November election.