Latest primaries yield mixed results for moderate and progressive Democrats

William Brangham:

Crowley had dropped out of the race last month before reentering 10 days later with the support of outgoing Democratic Governor Tony Evers.

(Cheering)

William Brangham:

Before the race was decided, Hong called for supporters to unite.

Francesca Hong (D), Wisconsin Gubernatorial Candidate: No matter who wins this primary, we're going to continue to fight for each other. We are going to collectively reject despair, and we are going to unite.

William Brangham:

Crowley will now face the Republican nominee, Congressman Tom Tiffany, this fall.

(Cheering)

William Brangham:

In neighboring Minnesota, a progressive candidate for Senate notched a big win. Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan won the Democratic nomination to replace retiring U.S. Senator Tina Smith, beating moderate Congresswoman Angie Craig by nearly 20 points.

Flanagan overcame a nearly 5-1 fund-raising disadvantage.

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan (D-MN), Senatorial Candidate: I have been telling You that this campaign was about the many versus the money.

(Cheering)

Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan:

Well, guess what? The many just won.

(Cheering)

William Brangham:

Flanagan will now face Republican nominee Michele Tafoya, who's a former NFL sideline reporter.

And in South Carolina, a special election to replace the late Senator Lindsey Graham on this November's ballot isn't over yet. Graham's sister, Darline, was appointed to fill his seat until January and is running to keep it in the family next year.

Sen. Darline Graham (R-SC):

I have buried my precious brother. I have taken on the role of a United States senator. And I have had this brutal campaign schedule. And I'm still standing. If that doesn't tell you I'm a strong person and a fighter, nothing will.

William Brangham:

Graham has President Trump's backing.

Frank Owens, South Carolina Republican Voter:

I think I would have gone with Darline either way, but it's always nice that they're able to work with the president.

William Brangham:

Graham faces conservative Ralph Norman in an August 25 run-off.

Rep. Ralph Norman (R-SC), Senatorial Candidate: I asked for the president's endorsement and didn't get it. But anybody would want the endorsement. But he chose who he did, and that's fine. South Carolina is going to decide the next senator.

(Cheering)