Trump-backed candidates win key Indiana GOP primaries, showing influence over party

Wed, 06 May 2026 09:54:00 +0200

In the Indiana primary elections on May 5, 2026, President Donald Trump demonstrated his continuing influence over the Republican Party by successfully supporting challengers who unseated a majority of state senators that had opposed his redistricting plans last year. Trump-aligned organizations invested over $13.5 million into these races, primarily targeting eight GOP incumbents, at least five of whom lost their seats. The campaign emphasized broader conservative issues such as opposition to gas tax increases and transgender participation in women's sports, alongside the redistricting dispute. Key victories included defeating state Senate leader Travis Holdman, potentially paving the way for leadership changes within the Indiana Senate. Observers suggest that the results send a message to Republicans nationwide about the importance of aligning with Trump and his political priorities. These outcomes also highlight the ongoing tension between investing in internal party battles versus