The Democrats are fighting to shape the political scene in primaries in eight states. California is an important one, where Republicans avoided an embarrassing issue in the governor race.

Lieutenant Governor and a Democrat, Gavin Newsom, advanced to the general election on Tuesday, John Cox, business executive, came in second. His strong finish ended GOP fears that there would be no Republicans qualified for a top office in the highly Democratic state.

The Race

The race for the governor is just one of many that drew attention to California. This state is not usually a place for national political battlegrounds. However, many of the House races – specifically in Southern California – made this territory very contested in a fight of who will control the House. A very large amount of money comes from there and it is the spotlight of the most important midterm primaries.

On Tuesday, people went to vote in seven other states. The night was a big success for women. Female candidates advanced, including Dianne Feinstein, California’s Senator.

Democrats Dominating?

Neither of the parties appeared to face major difficulties. However, the winners and losers in these competitive races in California could take days to sort out. This is due to the state’s very unique election laws.

California is currently a state that offers the most seats in the House to Democrats than any other. In order to retake the House, Democrats have to win at least 23 seats across the U.S.

As many expected, Feinstein won the nomination of her party for another term. It is still unclear if a Republican will earn enough votes to fight her in November in California’s elections.

Mikie Sherril is a Navy pilot and a former federal prosecutor from New Jersey. He defeated his Democratic rivals in the race to take the position of Rodney Frelinghuysen, a retiring Republican Representative.

Questions from the American People:

• Why are female candidates winning more political nominations? Is it because America is accepting more women in the role? Or because more women are voting? Or because America is seeking change from male-dominated politics and sex scandals?
• Will the pendulum swing in favor of Democrats this November? Or will positive relations with North Korea keep Republicans in power?