Former Obama adviser David Axelrod highlighted Iowa's Democratic Senate primary as one of the most significant races to watch during Tuesday's elections, arguing that it could provide an early indication of Democratic strength ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Speaking during CNN's election coverage, Axelrod noted that Iowa has traditionally leaned Republican in recent years and was won by Donald Trump by a large margin in the 2024 presidential election.

However, he suggested that changing political conditions and voter sentiment in the state could make the results particularly meaningful for assessing the national political environment.

The Democratic Senate primary in Iowa features state Representative Josh Turek and state Senator Zach Wahls, who are competing for the opportunity to run for the Senate seat being vacated by retiring Republican Senator Joni Ernst.

On the Republican side, Representative Ashley Hinson, who received Trump's endorsement, is viewed as the leading candidate against former state Senator Jim Carlin.Iowa voters are also deciding key gubernatorial and congressional contests.

In the governor's race, Republican Representative Randy Feenstra is considered the favorite for his party's nomination following Governor Kim Reynolds' decision to retire.

Meanwhile, Iowa's 3rd Congressional District remains highly competitive, with Republican Representative Zach Nunn facing Democratic state Senator Sarah Trone Garriott.

The article notes that voters in six states participated in primary elections on Tuesday: Iowa, Montana, New Mexico, New Jersey, South Dakota, and California.It also mentions that Trump publicly congratulated several endorsed candidates who were successful in their races through posts on Truth Social.