Michigan primary tests Democratic split in key House and Senate races

Michigan’s primary is emerging as a major test of whether Democratic voters in a pivotal swing state favor progressive outsiders or establishment-backed candidates ahead of the midterms. In the 7th Congressional District, one of 18 toss-up House seats, Democrats are competing for a Republican-held district that is central to the party’s effort to win back the chamber. NPR reported the contest has drawn candidates including former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink, retired Navy SEAL Matt Maasdam and William Lawrence, a co-founder of the Sunrise Movement. The state’s Senate primary is also under close watch as Democrats try to defend the seat being vacated by Sen. Gary Peters.