Midterm election battles take shape across the country

The race for control of Congress and key state leadership positions is beginning to take shape as candidates emerge from primary contests ahead of midterm elections.

(NBC)- The race for control of Congress and key state leadership positions is beginning to take shape as candidates emerge from primary contests ahead of midterm elections.

In California, former Attorney General Xavier Becerra appears poised to advance to the general election in the race to succeed Gov. Gavin Newsom.

“California, thank you very much… November here we come,” Becerra told supporters.

Becerra said he is prepared to lead the state into its next chapter.

“I am ready to lead the fight to uphold California’s promise,” he said.

His likely opponent is Republican Steve Hilton, a former television host who received President Donald Trump’s endorsement.

In Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass is expected to face former reality television star Spencer Pratt in a runoff election as she seeks a second term.

Pratt has built an anti-establishment campaign focused on voter frustration with city leadership.

“I’m an Angelino who said enough is enough, and I had to step up,” Pratt said.

Voters cited a range of issues influencing their decisions, including affordability, environmental concerns and foreign policy.

“I care a lot about the environment. I care about foreign policy. I care about affordability, all those things,” voter Ryan Marchand said.

Meanwhile, a key House battleground is emerging in New Jersey, where Democrat Rebecca Bennett will challenge Republican incumbent Tom Kean.

Kean has been away from Washington and largely out of public view for three months while dealing with an unspecified medical issue.

Control of the Senate could hinge on races in states like Iowa.

With Republican Sen. Joni Ernst retiring, Democratic state lawmaker Josh Turek is seeking to flip the seat.

“We need a fighter for the people, not for the billionaires, large corporations, and political donors,” Turek said.

President Trump has endorsed Republican candidate Ashley Hinson in the race.

While Trump-backed candidates have enjoyed a series of victories in Republican primaries this year, Iowa voters recently rejected the president’s preferred gubernatorial candidate. Randy Feenstra conceded the race to Zach Lahn, marking a rare setback for Trump’s endorsement record this election cycle.