Key US primary election results emerge, shaping November races and Trump's influence

Primary elections across several U.S. states have recently concluded, with results shaping the November general elections and offering insights into former President Donald Trump's continuing influence within the Republican party. In California, the high-profile gubernatorial primary remains too close to definitively call, although Republican Steve Hilton, who received Trump's endorsement, is among the leading contenders alongside Democrats Xavier Becerra and Tom Steyer. The state's unique "jungle primary" system means the top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will advance to the general election. Additionally, Los Angeles incumbent Mayor Karen Bass secured a spot in the November runoff.

Meanwhile, Iowa's primary results present a mixed picture for Trump's endorsement power. While his preferred candidate, Randy Feenstra, was defeated by Zach Lahn in the Republican gubernatorial primary, Trump-backed Joe Mitchell won the primary for Iowa's 2nd Congressional District. Furthermore, Republican Ashley Hinson, also endorsed by Trump, will face Democrat Josh Turek in the Senate general election after both won their respective primaries.

A recent national survey highlights Trump's significant sway over Republican primary voters, with 71% indicating they would support a candidate he endorsed. This influence has been evident in other states where Trump-backed candidates have successfully defeated Republican incumbents he opposed. Despite this continued command over the GOP base, the Iowa gubernatorial outcome demonstrates that his endorsements are not universally decisive, and his broader approval ratings are reportedly declining.