Kathmandu— Voters in Alaska and Wyoming will head to the polls on Tuesday, participating in primary elections that could have implications beyond their reliably Republican states. These contests, occurring late in the congressional primary calendar, include a competitive Senate race in Alaska with national stakes and a broad turnover of Republican leadership in Wyoming. The races offer an early indication of voter preferences ahead of November’s midterm elections, as candidates vie for control of Congress and state offices.

Alaska’s Unique Primary System

Alaska utilizes a single primary rather than separate contests for each party, following the approval of Ballot Measure 2 in 2020. This system allows all candidates to appear on one nonpartisan ballot, with the top four vote-getters advancing to the general election. The state’s unique approach adds complexity to the races, particularly given a crowded field of contenders.

Key Senate and Governor Races in Alaska

The US Senate race in Alaska is drawing significant national attention, as it could influence control of the chamber. Incumbent Republican Senator Dan Sullivan faces a strong challenge from former Democratic Representative Mary Peltola, who previously held Alaska’s seat in the House. The Cook Political Report ranks this contest among the most competitive Senate races nationwide.

A crowded field of seventeen candidates is vying to replace term-limited Governor Mike Dunleavy, including former Governor Bill Walker running as an independent and several prominent Republican figures. Super PACs have spent over $2 million attempting to boost lesser-known candidates, potentially influencing the November general election.

A Complicated Senate Ballot

An unusual subplot in Alaska’s Senate race involves two candidates named Dan Sullivan. The incumbent senator is being challenged by a retired teacher with the same name, Daniel J. Sullivan Jr., who was initially removed from the ballot but later reinstated by the state Supreme Court. With Alaska’s primary system selecting only four candidates for the general election, even a small number of confused votes could impact the outcome. Senator Sullivan will be listed as “Dan S. Sullivan” with his party affiliation and incumbency noted, while challenger Sullivan will appear simply as “Daniel J. Sullivan Jr.” without any party label.

Wyoming’s Leadership Transition

Wyoming is experiencing a significant shift in its political landscape, with incumbent Senator Cynthia Lummis retiring and Representative Harriet Hageman seeking to succeed her. This open-seat succession fight has created an opportunity for both hard-right conservatives and more traditional Republicans to vie for influence within the state’s GOP. The race reflects a division within the Wyoming Republican Party between these two factions.

Hageman Leads in Senate Race

Harriet Hageman, backed by former President Trump, is considered the frontrunner in the Senate primary. Former Kirby Mayor Sam Mead has distinguished himself from Hageman by promising to challenge Trump’s policies when they conflict with Wyoming’s interests. Nine candidates are competing for Hageman’s House seat, making it a costly and competitive contest.

Common Ground on Israel

Both incumbent Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska and his Senate challenger Mary Peltola share common ground in their support for Israel. Sullivan has consistently backed military aid and closer ties with Israel, while Peltola championed related legislation during her time in the House, even breaking with some fellow Democrats on Israel-related votes.

The results of Tuesday’s primaries will provide further insight into voter preferences as the US heads toward the November midterm elections. The Alaska Senate race is expected to remain competitive through the general election, while Wyoming’s leadership transition could reshape the state’s political landscape.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.