US primaries test Trump's sway as key candidates like Platner and Hilton advance

Former President Donald Trump encountered a mixed public reception, notably receiving boos during an appearance at Madison Square Garden. Attending Game 3 of the NBA Finals on June 8, 2026, as the first sitting president to do so, Trump was met with loud jeers from fans when he was shown on the arena's video screens during the national anthem. His visit also prompted heightened security measures and external protests featuring signs critical of his presence.

Concurrently, recent Republican primary elections held in May 2026 served as a measure of Trump's ongoing influence within the party. While several of his endorsed candidates secured victories in heavily conservative districts, demonstrating his continued sway with a core segment of the Republican base, some analyses suggested a potential erosion of support among broader Republican voters. This indicates a complex and evolving landscape for his political standing as the party prepares for upcoming electoral contests.