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Contested state legislative primaries, 2020

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Last updated on November 18, 2024
2020 State Legislative Competitiveness
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There were 5,875 state legislative seats up for election on November 3, 2020, in 44 states. This page analyzes contested primaries in those races. A primary is contested when there are more candidates running than nominations available, meaning at least one candidate on the primary ballot must lose. Learn more about the terms and methodologies used in this analysis.

Ballotpedia uses the number and percentage of contested primaries to help determine the overall competitiveness of an election cycle. A greater number of contested primaries indicates more candidates running for office and more choices voters must make. A smaller number of contested primaries indicates fewer candidates and choices on the ballot.

There were 5,497 state legislative districts up for election nationwide, creating 10,746 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 1,827 contested primaries, meaning 17% of all primaries were contested. This was down from 2018 (19%) but equal to 2016 (17%).

In 2020:

  • There were 836 contested Democratic primaries, representing 16% of all possible Democratic primaries and a 17% decrease from 2018.
  • There were 882 contested Republican primaries, representing 17% of all possible Republican primaries and a 13% decrease from 2018.
  • There were 109 contested top-two/four primaries, representing 44% of all possible top-two/four primaries and a 2% increase from 2018.
  • The total number of contested primaries—1,827—was down from 2018 (2,123), representing a decrease of 14%.


  • Contested state legislative primaries, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Top-two/four Total
    # % # % # % # %
    House 4,349 637 15.3% 678 16.3% 81 45.5% 1,396 16.4%
    Senate 1,148 199 18.5% 204 18.9% 28 40.0% 431 19.4%
    Total 5,497 836 15.9% 882 16.8% 109 44.0% 1,827 17.0%


    Click [show] on the table below to view contested primary statistics by state in 2020. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Historical comparison

    The chart below shows a breakdown of contested primaries from 2010 to 2020.


    Click [show] on the table below to view overall contested primary statistics by state from 2010 to 2020. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    By state

    Overview

    Alaska

    There were 50 state legislative districts up for election in Alaska, creating 100 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 30 contested primaries—seven by Democrats and 23 by Republicans—meaning 30.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Alaska, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 40 6 15.0% 16 40.0% 22 27.5%
    Senate 10 1 10.0% 7 70.0% 8 40.0%
    Total 50 7 14.0% 23 46.0% 30 30.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Alaska, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 50 1 2.0% 9 18.0% 10 10.0%
    2012 59 6 10.2% 21 35.6% 27 22.9%
    2014 54 2 3.7% 11 20.4% 13 12.0%
    2016 50 4 8.0% 18 36.0% 22 22.0%
    2018 50 5 10.0% 23 46.0% 28 28.0%
    2020 50 7 14.0% 23 46.0% 30 30.0%


    See also:

    Arizona

    There were 60 state legislative districts up for election in Arizona, creating 120 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 26 contested primaries—12 by Democrats and 14 by Republicans—meaning 21.7% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Arizona, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 30 7 23.3% 9 30.0% 16 26.7%
    Senate 30 5 16.7% 5 16.7% 10 16.7%
    Total 60 12 20.0% 14 23.3% 26 21.7%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Arizona, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 60 11 18.3% 26 43.3% 37 30.8%
    2012 60 14 23.3% 13 21.7% 27 22.5%
    2014 60 10 16.7% 21 35.0% 31 25.8%
    2016 60 11 18.3% 12 20.0% 23 19.2%
    2018 60 21 35.0% 21 35.0% 42 35.0%
    2020 60 12 20.0% 14 23.3% 26 21.7%


    See also:

    Arkansas

    There were 117 state legislative districts up for election in Arkansas, creating 234 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 21 contested primaries—five by Democrats and 16 by Republicans—meaning 9.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Arkansas, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 100 3 3.0% 13 13.0% 16 8.0%
    Senate 17 2 11.8% 3 17.6% 5 14.7%
    Total 117 5 4.3% 16 13.7% 21 9.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Arkansas, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 117 34 29.1% 10 8.5% 44 18.8%
    2012 135 19 14.1% 14 10.4% 33 12.2%
    2014 118 4 3.4% 22 18.6% 26 11.0%
    2016 117 4 3.4% 18 15.4% 22 9.4%
    2018 118 9 7.6% 18 15.3% 27 11.4%
    2020 117 5 4.3% 16 13.7% 21 9.0%


    See also:

    California

    There were 100 state legislative districts up for election in California, creating 100 possible primaries because of the state's top-two primary system. Of that total, there were 51 contested top-two primaries, meaning 51.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Statistics from 2020 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in California, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Total
    # %
    House 80 36 45.0%
    Senate 20 15 75.0%
    Total 100 51 51.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in California, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Top-two/four Total
    # % # % # % # %
    2010 100 25 25.0% 27 27.0% N/A 52 26.0%
    2012 100 N/A 60 60.0% 60 60.0%
    2014 100 N/A 54 54.0% 54 54.0%
    2016 100 N/A 49 49.0% 49 49.0%
    2018 100 N/A 50 50.0% 50 50.0%
    2020 100 N/A 51 51.0% 51 51.0%


    See also:

    Colorado

    There were 83 state legislative districts up for election in Colorado, creating 166 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 19 contested primaries—eight by Democrats and 11 by Republicans—meaning 11.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Colorado, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 65 5 7.7% 9 13.8% 14 10.8%
    Senate 18 3 16.7% 2 11.1% 5 13.9%
    Total 83 8 9.6% 11 13.3% 19 11.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Colorado, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 84 9 10.7% 6 7.1% 15 8.9%
    2012 85 4 4.7% 13 15.3% 17 10.0%
    2014 82 3 3.7% 9 11.0% 12 7.3%
    2016 83 12 14.5% 12 14.5% 24 14.5%
    2018 82 12 14.6% 8 9.8% 20 12.2%
    2020 83 8 9.6% 11 13.3% 19 11.4%


    See also:

    Connecticut

    There were 187 state legislative districts up for election in Connecticut, creating 374 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 14 contested primaries—10 by Democrats and four by Republicans—meaning 3.7% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Connecticut, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 151 8 5.3% 3 2.0% 11 3.6%
    Senate 36 2 5.6% 1 2.8% 3 4.2%
    Total 187 10 5.3% 4 2.1% 14 3.7%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Connecticut, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 187 15 8.0% 7 3.7% 22 5.9%
    2012 187 14 7.5% 1 0.5% 15 4.0%
    2014 187 13 7.0% 5 2.7% 18 4.8%
    2016 187 10 5.3% 2 1.1% 12 3.2%
    2018 187 14 7.5% 6 3.2% 20 5.3%
    2020 187 10 5.3% 4 2.1% 14 3.7%


    See also:

    Delaware

    There were 52 state legislative districts up for election in Delaware, creating 104 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 12 contested primaries—11 by Democrats and one by Republicans—meaning 11.5% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Delaware, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 41 7 17.1% 0 0.0% 7 8.5%
    Senate 11 4 36.4% 1 9.1% 5 22.7%
    Total 52 11 21.2% 1 1.9% 12 11.5%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Delaware, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 52 8 15.4% 5 9.6% 13 12.5%
    2012 62 14 22.6% 6 9.7% 20 16.1%
    2014 51 8 15.7% 3 5.9% 11 10.8%
    2016 52 7 13.5% 2 3.8% 9 8.7%
    2018 51 13 25.5% 4 7.8% 17 16.7%
    2020 52 11 21.2% 1 1.9% 12 11.5%


    See also:

    Florida

    There were 140 state legislative districts up for election in Florida, creating 280 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 71 contested primaries—37 by Democrats and 34 by Republicans—meaning 25.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Florida, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 120 31 25.8% 30 25.0% 61 25.4%
    Senate 20 6 30.0% 4 20.0% 10 25.0%
    Total 140 37 26.4% 34 24.3% 71 25.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Florida, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 160 20 12.5% 44 27.5% 64 20.0%
    2012 160 29 18.1% 45 28.1% 74 23.1%
    2014 140 14 10.0% 28 20.0% 42 15.0%
    2016 160 42 26.3% 32 20.0% 74 23.1%
    2018 140 37 26.4% 31 22.1% 68 24.3%
    2020 140 37 26.4% 34 24.3% 71 25.4%


    See also:

    Georgia

    There were 236 state legislative districts up for election in Georgia, creating 472 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 80 contested primaries—49 by Democrats and 31 by Republicans—meaning 16.9% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Georgia, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 180 34 18.9% 20 11.1% 54 15.0%
    Senate 56 15 26.8% 11 19.6% 26 23.2%
    Total 236 49 20.8% 31 13.1% 80 16.9%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Georgia, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 236 29 12.3% 47 19.9% 76 16.1%
    2012 236 32 13.6% 44 18.6% 76 16.1%
    2014 236 23 9.7% 39 16.5% 62 13.1%
    2016 236 30 12.7% 46 19.5% 76 16.1%
    2018 236 44 18.6% 44 18.6% 88 18.6%
    2020 236 49 20.8% 31 13.1% 80 16.9%


    See also:

    Hawaii

    There were 64 state legislative districts up for election in Hawaii, creating 128 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 31 contested primaries—29 by Democrats and two by Republicans—meaning 24.2% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Hawaii, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 51 24 47.1% 2 3.9% 26 25.5%
    Senate 13 5 38.5% 0 0.0% 5 19.2%
    Total 64 29 45.3% 2 3.1% 31 24.2%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Hawaii, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 66 32 48.5% 10 15.2% 42 31.8%
    2012 76 31 40.8% 7 9.2% 38 25.0%
    2014 63 23 36.5% 6 9.5% 29 23.0%
    2016 64 29 45.3% 5 7.8% 34 26.6%
    2018 63 33 52.4% 4 6.3% 37 29.4%
    2020 64 29 45.3% 2 3.1% 31 24.2%


    See also:

    Idaho

    There were 105 state legislative districts up for election in Idaho, creating 210 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 45 contested primaries—three by Democrats and 42 by Republicans—meaning 21.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Idaho, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 70 2 2.9% 30 42.9% 32 22.9%
    Senate 35 1 2.9% 12 34.3% 13 18.6%
    Total 105 3 2.9% 42 40.0% 45 21.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Idaho, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 105 2 1.9% 32 30.5% 34 16.2%
    2012 105 10 9.5% 61 58.1% 71 33.8%
    2014 105 6 5.7% 34 32.4% 40 19.0%
    2016 105 3 2.9% 35 33.3% 38 18.1%
    2018 105 7 6.7% 44 41.9% 51 24.3%
    2020 105 3 2.9% 42 40.0% 45 21.4%


    See also:

    Illinois

    There were 138 state legislative districts up for election in Illinois, creating 276 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 38 contested primaries—28 by Democrats and 10 by Republicans—meaning 13.8% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Illinois, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 118 22 18.6% 8 6.8% 30 12.7%
    Senate 20 6 30.0% 2 10.0% 8 20.0%
    Total 138 28 20.3% 10 7.2% 38 13.8%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Illinois, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 139 24 17.3% 15 10.8% 39 14.0%
    2012 177 38 21.5% 29 16.4% 67 18.9%
    2014 137 13 9.5% 16 11.7% 29 10.6%
    2016 158 15 9.5% 15 9.5% 30 9.5%
    2018 157 23 14.6% 22 14.0% 45 14.3%
    2020 138 28 20.3% 10 7.2% 38 13.8%


    See also:

    Indiana

    There were 125 state legislative districts up for election in Indiana, creating 250 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 44 contested primaries—20 by Democrats and 24 by Republicans—meaning 17.6% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Indiana, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 100 16 16.0% 19 19.0% 35 17.5%
    Senate 25 4 16.0% 5 20.0% 9 18.0%
    Total 125 20 16.0% 24 19.2% 44 17.6%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Indiana, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 125 13 10.4% 33 26.4% 46 18.4%
    2012 125 16 12.8% 35 28.0% 51 20.4%
    2014 125 2 1.6% 23 18.4% 25 10.0%
    2016 125 12 9.6% 26 20.8% 38 15.2%
    2018 125 18 14.4% 26 20.8% 44 17.6%
    2020 125 20 16.0% 24 19.2% 44 17.6%


    See also:

    Iowa

    There were 125 state legislative districts up for election in Iowa, creating 250 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 28 contested primaries—12 by Democrats and 16 by Republicans—meaning 11.2% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Iowa, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 100 8 8.0% 9 9.0% 17 8.5%
    Senate 25 4 16.0% 7 28.0% 11 22.0%
    Total 125 12 9.6% 16 12.8% 28 11.2%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Iowa, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 125 7 5.6% 19 15.2% 26 10.4%
    2012 126 10 7.9% 35 27.8% 45 17.9%
    2014 125 14 11.2% 15 12.0% 29 11.6%
    2016 125 14 11.2% 15 12.0% 29 11.6%
    2018 125 15 12.0% 17 13.6% 32 12.8%
    2020 125 12 9.6% 16 12.8% 28 11.2%


    See also:

    Kansas

    There were 165 state legislative districts up for election in Kansas, creating 330 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 54 contested primaries—14 by Democrats and 40 by Republicans—meaning 16.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Kansas, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 125 12 9.6% 29 23.2% 41 16.4%
    Senate 40 2 5.0% 11 27.5% 13 16.3%
    Total 165 14 8.5% 40 24.2% 54 16.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Kansas, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 125 4 3.2% 32 25.6% 36 14.4%
    2012 165 18 10.9% 84 50.9% 102 30.9%
    2014 125 5 4.0% 30 24.0% 35 14.0%
    2016 165 13 7.9% 55 33.3% 68 20.6%
    2018 125 11 8.8% 31 24.8% 42 16.8%
    2020 165 14 8.5% 40 24.2% 54 16.4%


    See also:

    Kentucky

    There were 119 state legislative districts up for election in Kentucky, creating 238 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 36 contested primaries—13 by Democrats and 23 by Republicans—meaning 15.1% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Kentucky, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 100 11 11.0% 19 19.0% 30 15.0%
    Senate 19 2 10.5% 4 21.1% 6 15.8%
    Total 119 13 10.9% 23 19.3% 36 15.1%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Kentucky, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 119 17 14.3% 20 16.8% 37 15.5%
    2012 119 15 12.6% 23 19.3% 38 16.0%
    2014 119 11 9.2% 18 15.1% 29 12.2%
    2016 119 15 12.6% 27 22.7% 42 17.6%
    2018 119 25 21.0% 26 21.8% 51 21.4%
    2020 119 13 10.9% 23 19.3% 36 15.1%


    See also:

    Maine

    There were 186 state legislative districts up for election in Maine, creating 372 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 34 contested primaries—25 by Democrats and nine by Republicans—meaning 9.1% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Maine, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 151 19 12.6% 6 4.0% 25 8.3%
    Senate 35 6 17.1% 3 8.6% 9 12.9%
    Total 186 25 13.4% 9 4.8% 34 9.1%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Maine, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 186 14 7.5% 22 11.8% 36 9.7%
    2012 186 23 12.4% 16 8.6% 39 10.5%
    2014 186 13 7.0% 13 7.0% 26 7.0%
    2016 186 17 9.1% 13 7.0% 30 8.1%
    2018 186 20 10.8% 8 4.3% 28 7.5%
    2020 186 25 13.4% 9 4.8% 34 9.1%


    See also:

    Massachusetts

    There were 200 state legislative districts up for election in Massachusetts, creating 400 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 37 contested primaries—33 by Democrats and four by Republicans—meaning 9.3% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Massachusetts, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 160 28 17.5% 4 2.5% 32 10.0%
    Senate 40 5 12.5% 0 0.0% 5 6.3%
    Total 200 33 16.5% 4 2.0% 37 9.3%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Massachusetts, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 200 40 20.0% 21 10.5% 61 15.3%
    2012 200 30 15.0% 8 4.0% 38 9.5%
    2014 200 35 17.5% 12 6.0% 47 11.8%
    2016 200 36 18.0% 3 1.5% 39 9.8%
    2018 160 44 27.5% 6 3.8% 50 15.6%
    2020 200 33 16.5% 4 2.0% 37 9.3%


    See also:

    Michigan

    There were 110 state legislative districts up for election in Michigan, creating 220 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 91 contested primaries—48 by Democrats and 43 by Republicans—meaning 41.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Michigan, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 110 48 43.6% 43 39.1% 91 41.4%
    Senate Did not hold elections
    Total 110 48 43.6% 43 39.1% 91 41.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Michigan, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 148 60 40.5% 78 52.7% 138 46.6%
    2012 110 51 46.4% 34 30.9% 85 38.6%
    2014 148 48 32.4% 56 37.8% 104 35.1%
    2016 110 45 40.9% 50 45.5% 95 43.2%
    2018 148 67 45.3% 59 39.9% 126 42.6%
    2020 110 48 43.6% 43 39.1% 91 41.4%


    See also:

    Minnesota

    There were 201 state legislative districts up for election in Minnesota, creating 402 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 40 contested primaries—25 by Democrats and 15 by Republicans—meaning 10.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Minnesota, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 134 12 9.0% 11 8.2% 23 8.6%
    Senate 67 13 19.4% 4 6.0% 17 12.7%
    Total 201 25 12.4% 15 7.5% 40 10.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Minnesota, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 201 13 6.5% 10 5.0% 23 5.7%
    2012 201 24 11.9% 20 10.0% 44 10.9%
    2014 134 6 4.5% 9 6.7% 15 5.6%
    2016 201 17 8.5% 11 5.5% 28 7.0%
    2018 134 14 10.4% 8 6.0% 22 8.2%
    2020 201 25 12.4% 15 7.5% 40 10.0%


    See also:

    Missouri

    There were 180 state legislative districts up for election in Missouri, creating 360 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 64 contested primaries—22 by Democrats and 42 by Republicans—meaning 17.8% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Missouri, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 163 18 11.0% 34 20.9% 52 16.0%
    Senate 17 4 23.5% 8 47.1% 12 35.3%
    Total 180 22 12.2% 42 23.3% 64 17.8%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Missouri, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 180 29 16.1% 57 31.7% 86 23.9%
    2012 180 38 21.1% 48 26.7% 86 23.9%
    2014 180 16 8.9% 33 18.3% 49 13.6%
    2016 180 24 13.3% 33 18.3% 57 15.8%
    2018 180 29 16.1% 49 27.2% 78 21.7%
    2020 180 22 12.2% 42 23.3% 64 17.8%


    See also:

    Montana

    There were 125 state legislative districts up for election in Montana, creating 250 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 51 contested primaries—16 by Democrats and 35 by Republicans—meaning 20.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Montana, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 100 9 9.0% 28 28.0% 37 18.5%
    Senate 25 7 28.0% 7 28.0% 14 28.0%
    Total 125 16 12.8% 35 28.0% 51 20.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Montana, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 126 21 16.7% 38 30.2% 59 23.4%
    2012 126 16 12.7% 29 23.0% 45 17.9%
    2014 125 21 16.8% 38 30.4% 59 23.6%
    2016 125 14 11.2% 36 28.8% 50 20.0%
    2018 125 17 13.6% 21 16.8% 38 15.2%
    2020 125 16 12.8% 35 28.0% 51 20.4%


    See also:

    Nebraska

    There were 25 state legislative districts up for election in Nebraska, creating 25 possible primaries because of the state's top-two primary system. Of that total, there were six contested top-two primaries, meaning 24.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Statistics from 2020 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Nebraska, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Total
    # %
    House N/A
    Senate 25 6 24.0%
    Total 25 6 24.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Nebraska, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Total
    # %
    2010 24 9 37.5%
    2012 25 9 36.0%
    2014 24 11 45.8%
    2016 25 13 52.0%
    2018 24 10 41.7%
    2020 25 6 24.0%


    See also:

    Nevada

    There were 52 state legislative districts up for election in Nevada, creating 104 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 29 contested primaries—14 by Democrats and 15 by Republicans—meaning 27.9% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Nevada, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 42 12 28.6% 14 33.3% 26 31.0%
    Senate 10 2 20.0% 1 10.0% 3 15.0%
    Total 52 14 26.9% 15 28.8% 29 27.9%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Nevada, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 53 20 37.7% 28 52.8% 48 45.3%
    2012 52 20 38.5% 15 28.8% 35 33.7%
    2014 53 12 22.6% 20 37.7% 32 30.2%
    2016 52 15 28.8% 24 46.2% 39 37.5%
    2018 53 16 30.2% 17 32.1% 33 31.1%
    2020 52 14 26.9% 15 28.8% 29 27.9%


    See also:

    New Hampshire

    There were 228 state legislative districts up for election in New Hampshire, creating 456 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 67 contested primaries—30 by Democrats and 37 by Republicans—meaning 14.7% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in New Hampshire, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 204 27 13.2% 30 14.7% 57 14.0%
    Senate 24 3 12.5% 7 29.2% 10 20.8%
    Total 228 30 13.2% 37 16.2% 67 14.7%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in New Hampshire, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 127 14 11.0% 40 31.5% 54 21.3%
    2012 228 17 7.5% 68 29.8% 85 18.6%
    2014 228 20 8.8% 58 25.4% 78 17.1%
    2016 228 25 11.0% 51 22.4% 76 16.7%
    2018 228 34 14.9% 36 15.8% 70 15.4%
    2020 228 30 13.2% 37 16.2% 67 14.7%


    See also:

    New Mexico

    There were 112 state legislative districts up for election in New Mexico, creating 224 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 38 contested primaries—25 by Democrats and 13 by Republicans—meaning 17.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in New Mexico, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 70 12 17.1% 5 7.1% 17 12.1%
    Senate 42 13 31.0% 8 19.0% 21 25.0%
    Total 112 25 22.3% 13 11.6% 38 17.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in New Mexico, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 70 14 20.0% 9 12.9% 23 16.4%
    2012 112 32 28.6% 14 12.5% 46 20.5%
    2014 70 12 17.1% 6 8.6% 18 12.9%
    2016 112 19 17.0% 4 3.6% 23 10.3%
    2018 70 10 14.3% 3 4.3% 13 9.3%
    2020 112 25 22.3% 13 11.6% 38 17.0%


    See also:

    New York

    There were 213 state legislative districts up for election in New York, creating 426 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 59 contested primaries—53 by Democrats and six by Republicans—meaning 13.8% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in New York, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 150 38 25.3% 5 3.3% 43 14.3%
    Senate 63 15 23.8% 1 1.6% 16 12.7%
    Total 213 53 24.9% 6 2.8% 59 13.8%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in New York, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 212 52 24.5% 14 6.6% 66 15.6%
    2012 213 40 18.8% 16 7.5% 56 13.1%
    2014 213 37 17.4% 9 4.2% 46 10.8%
    2016 213 39 18.3% 15 7.0% 54 12.7%
    2018 213 39 18.3% 9 4.2% 48 11.3%
    2020 213 53 24.9% 6 2.8% 59 13.8%


    See also:

    North Carolina

    There were 170 state legislative districts up for election in North Carolina, creating 340 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 59 contested primaries—29 by Democrats and 30 by Republicans—meaning 17.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in North Carolina, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 120 22 18.3% 23 19.2% 45 18.8%
    Senate 50 7 14.0% 7 14.0% 14 14.0%
    Total 170 29 17.1% 30 17.6% 59 17.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in North Carolina, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 170 34 20.0% 47 27.6% 81 23.8%
    2012 170 35 20.6% 56 32.9% 91 26.8%
    2014 170 22 12.9% 31 18.2% 53 15.6%
    2016 170 27 15.9% 34 20.0% 61 17.9%
    2018 170 34 20.0% 41 24.1% 75 22.1%
    2020 170 29 17.1% 30 17.6% 59 17.4%


    See also:

    North Dakota

    There were 46 state legislative districts up for election in North Dakota, creating 92 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 6 contested primaries—zero by Democrats and six by Republicans—meaning 6.5% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in North Dakota, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 23 0 0.0% 3 13.0% 3 6.5%
    Senate 23 0 0.0% 3 13.0% 3 6.5%
    Total 46 0 0.0% 6 13.0% 6 6.5%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in North Dakota, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 48 1 2.1% 0 0.0% 1 1.0%
    2012 50 0 0.0% 7 14.0% 7 7.0%
    2014 48 1 2.1% 3 6.3% 4 4.2%
    2016 46 0 0.0% 4 8.7% 4 4.3%
    2018 48 0 0.0% 5 10.4% 5 5.2%
    2020 46 0 0.0% 6 13.0% 6 6.5%


    See also:

    Ohio

    There were 115 state legislative districts up for election in Ohio, creating 230 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 38 contested primaries—15 by Democrats and 23 by Republicans—meaning 16.5% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Ohio, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 99 12 12.1% 17 17.2% 29 14.6%
    Senate 16 3 18.8% 6 37.5% 9 28.1%
    Total 115 15 13.0% 23 20.0% 38 16.5%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Ohio, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 116 26 22.4% 28 24.1% 54 23.3%
    2012 117 14 12.0% 20 17.1% 34 14.5%
    2014 116 17 14.7% 34 29.3% 51 22.0%
    2016 115 16 13.9% 27 23.5% 43 18.7%
    2018 116 30 25.9% 33 28.4% 63 27.2%
    2020 115 15 13.0% 23 20.0% 38 16.5%


    See also:

    Oklahoma

    There were 125 state legislative districts up for election in Oklahoma, creating 250 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 52 contested primaries—eight by Democrats and 44 by Republicans—meaning 20.8% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Oklahoma, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 101 4 4.0% 34 33.7% 38 18.8%
    Senate 24 4 16.7% 10 41.7% 14 29.2%
    Total 125 8 6.4% 44 35.2% 52 20.8%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Oklahoma, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 125 14 11.2% 25 20.0% 39 15.6%
    2012 125 11 8.8% 34 27.2% 45 18.0%
    2014 125 12 9.6% 33 26.4% 45 18.0%
    2016 125 28 22.4% 55 44.0% 83 33.2%
    2018 125 49 39.2% 68 54.4% 117 46.8%
    2020 125 8 6.4% 44 35.2% 52 20.8%


    See also:

    Oregon

    There were 75 state legislative districts up for election in Oregon, creating 150 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 33 contested primaries—20 by Democrats and 13 by Republicans—meaning 22.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Oregon, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 60 16 26.7% 11 18.3% 27 22.5%
    Senate 15 4 26.7% 2 13.3% 6 20.0%
    Total 75 20 26.7% 13 17.3% 33 22.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Oregon, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 76 6 7.9% 14 18.4% 20 13.2%
    2012 76 6 7.9% 9 11.8% 15 9.9%
    2014 75 7 9.3% 13 17.3% 20 13.3%
    2016 75 12 16.0% 5 6.7% 17 11.3%
    2018 73 13 17.8% 12 16.4% 25 17.1%
    2020 75 20 26.7% 13 17.3% 33 22.0%


    See also:

    Pennsylvania

    There were 228 state legislative districts up for election in Pennsylvania, creating 456 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 58 contested primaries—33 by Democrats and 25 by Republicans—meaning 12.7% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Pennsylvania, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 203 24 11.8% 23 11.3% 47 11.6%
    Senate 25 9 36.0% 2 8.0% 11 22.0%
    Total 228 33 14.5% 25 11.0% 58 12.7%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Pennsylvania, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 228 34 14.9% 29 12.7% 63 13.8%
    2012 228 35 15.4% 28 12.3% 63 13.8%
    2014 228 39 17.1% 29 12.7% 68 14.9%
    2016 228 28 12.3% 21 9.2% 49 10.7%
    2018 228 39 17.1% 24 10.5% 63 13.8%
    2020 228 33 14.5% 25 11.0% 58 12.7%


    See also:

    Rhode Island

    There were 113 state legislative districts up for election in Rhode Island, creating 226 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 34 contested primaries—33 by Democrats and one by Republicans—meaning 15.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Rhode Island, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 75 19 25.3% 0 0.0% 19 12.7%
    Senate 38 14 36.8% 1 2.6% 15 19.7%
    Total 113 33 29.2% 1 0.9% 34 15.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Rhode Island, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 113 45 39.8% 6 5.3% 51 22.6%
    2012 113 35 31.0% 5 4.4% 40 17.7%
    2014 113 23 20.4% 3 2.7% 26 11.5%
    2016 113 24 21.2% 3 2.7% 27 11.9%
    2018 113 30 26.5% 3 2.7% 33 14.6%
    2020 113 33 29.2% 1 0.9% 34 15.0%


    See also:

    South Carolina

    There were 170 state legislative districts up for election in South Carolina, creating 340 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 64 contested primaries—26 by Democrats and 38 by Republicans—meaning 18.8% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in South Carolina, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 124 17 13.7% 24 19.4% 41 16.5%
    Senate 46 9 19.6% 14 30.4% 23 25.0%
    Total 170 26 15.3% 38 22.4% 64 18.8%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in South Carolina, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 124 14 11.3% 25 20.2% 39 15.7%
    2012 170 9 5.3% 26 15.3% 35 10.3%
    2014 124 8 6.5% 21 16.9% 29 11.7%
    2016 170 20 11.8% 39 22.9% 59 17.4%
    2018 124 12 9.7% 33 26.6% 45 18.1%
    2020 170 26 15.3% 38 22.4% 64 18.8%


    See also:

    South Dakota

    There were 72 state legislative districts up for election in South Dakota, creating 144 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 29 contested primaries—two by Democrats and 27 by Republicans—meaning 20.1% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in South Dakota, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 37 2 5.4% 17 45.9% 19 25.7%
    Senate 35 0 0.0% 10 28.6% 10 14.3%
    Total 72 2 2.8% 27 37.5% 29 20.1%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in South Dakota, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 72 8 11.1% 10 13.9% 18 12.5%
    2012 72 3 4.2% 27 37.5% 30 20.8%
    2014 72 5 6.9% 17 23.6% 22 15.3%
    2016 72 4 5.6% 22 30.6% 26 18.1%
    2018 72 7 9.7% 17 23.6% 24 16.7%
    2020 72 2 2.8% 27 37.5% 29 20.1%


    See also:

    Tennessee

    There were 115 state legislative districts up for election in Tennessee, creating 230 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 37 contested primaries—14 by Democrats and 23 by Republicans—meaning 16.1% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Tennessee, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 99 11 11.1% 19 19.2% 30 15.2%
    Senate 16 3 18.8% 4 25.0% 7 21.9%
    Total 115 14 12.2% 23 20.0% 37 16.1%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Tennessee, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 116 13 11.2% 24 20.7% 37 15.9%
    2012 115 16 13.9% 46 40.0% 62 27.0%
    2014 116 10 8.6% 34 29.3% 44 19.0%
    2016 115 19 16.5% 38 33.0% 57 24.8%
    2018 116 26 22.4% 35 30.2% 61 26.3%
    2020 115 14 12.2% 23 20.0% 37 16.1%


    See also:

    Texas

    There were 166 state legislative districts up for election in Texas, creating 332 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 71 contested primaries—41 by Democrats and 30 by Republicans—meaning 21.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Texas, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 150 36 24.0% 29 19.3% 65 21.7%
    Senate 16 5 31.3% 1 6.3% 6 18.8%
    Total 166 41 24.7% 30 18.1% 71 21.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Texas, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 166 11 6.6% 45 27.1% 56 16.9%
    2012 181 20 11.0% 70 38.7% 90 24.9%
    2014 165 13 7.9% 44 26.7% 57 17.3%
    2016 166 25 15.1% 45 27.1% 70 21.1%
    2018 165 45 27.3% 49 29.7% 94 28.5%
    2020 166 41 24.7% 30 18.1% 71 21.4%


    See also:

    Utah

    There were 90 state legislative districts up for election in Utah, creating 180 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 18 contested primaries—one by Democrats and 17 by Republicans—meaning 10.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Utah, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 75 1 1.3% 12 16.0% 13 8.7%
    Senate 15 0 0.0% 5 33.3% 5 16.7%
    Total 90 1 1.1% 17 18.9% 18 10.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Utah, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 90 2 2.2% 12 13.3% 14 7.8%
    2012 91 4 4.4% 16 17.6% 20 11.0%
    2014 89 1 1.1% 6 6.7% 7 3.9%
    2016 90 0 0.0% 10 11.1% 10 5.6%
    2018 89 3 3.4% 14 15.7% 17 9.6%
    2020 90 1 1.1% 17 18.9% 18 10.0%


    See also:

    Vermont

    There were 117 state legislative districts up for election in Vermont, creating 234 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 29 contested primaries—22 by Democrats and seven by Republicans—meaning 12.4% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Vermont, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 104 18 17.3% 6 5.8% 24 11.5%
    Senate 13 4 30.8% 1 7.7% 5 19.2%
    Total 117 22 18.8% 7 6.0% 29 12.4%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Vermont, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 121 9 7.4% 7 5.8% 16 6.6%
    2012 117 8 6.8% 4 3.4% 12 5.1%
    2014 117 6 5.1% 5 4.3% 11 4.7%
    2016 117 19 16.2% 2 1.7% 21 9.0%
    2018 117 11 9.4% 3 2.6% 14 6.0%
    2020 117 22 18.8% 7 6.0% 29 12.4%


    See also:

    Washington

    There were 123 state legislative districts up for election in Washington, creating 123 possible primaries because of the state's top-two primary system. Of that total, there were 52 contested top-two primaries, meaning 42.3% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Statistics from 2020 are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Washington, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Total
    # %
    House 98 45 45.9%
    Senate 25 7 28.0%
    Total 123 52 42.3%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Washington, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Total
    # %
    2010 123 41 33.3%
    2012 124 29 23.4%
    2014 123 29 23.6%
    2016 124 46 37.1%
    2018 123 47 38.2%
    2020 123 52 42.3%


    See also:

    West Virginia

    There were 84 state legislative districts up for election in West Virginia, creating 168 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 52 contested primaries—19 by Democrats and 33 by Republicans—meaning 31.0% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in West Virginia, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 67 17 25.4% 22 32.8% 39 29.1%
    Senate 17 2 11.8% 11 64.7% 13 38.2%
    Total 84 19 22.6% 33 39.3% 52 31.0%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in West Virginia, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 75 32 42.7% 14 18.7% 46 30.7%
    2012 84 35 41.7% 16 19.0% 51 30.4%
    2014 84 20 23.8% 24 28.6% 44 26.2%
    2016 84 31 36.9% 33 39.3% 64 38.1%
    2018 84 23 27.4% 34 40.5% 57 33.9%
    2020 84 19 22.6% 33 39.3% 52 31.0%


    See also:

    Wisconsin

    There were 115 state legislative districts up for election in Wisconsin, creating 230 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 33 contested primaries—18 by Democrats and 15 by Republicans—meaning 14.3% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Wisconsin, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 99 13 13.1% 12 12.1% 25 12.6%
    Senate 16 5 31.3% 3 18.8% 8 25.0%
    Total 115 18 15.7% 15 13.0% 33 14.3%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Wisconsin, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 116 13 11.2% 37 31.9% 50 21.6%
    2012 115 29 25.2% 22 19.1% 51 22.2%
    2014 116 12 10.3% 20 17.2% 32 13.8%
    2016 115 25 21.7% 8 7.0% 33 14.3%
    2018 116 14 12.1% 6 5.2% 20 8.6%
    2020 115 18 15.7% 15 13.0% 33 14.3%


    See also:

    Wyoming

    There were 75 state legislative districts up for election in Wyoming, creating 150 possible primaries. Of that total, there were 46 contested primaries—six by Democrats and 40 by Republicans—meaning 30.7% of all primaries were contested.

    In 2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Wyoming, 2020
    Chamber Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    House 60 6 10.0% 30 50.0% 36 30.0%
    Senate 15 0 0.0% 10 66.7% 10 33.3%
    Total 75 6 8.0% 40 53.3% 46 30.7%

    2010-2020

    Historical statistics are shown below. Hover over column headings to learn more about their contents.

    Contested state legislative primaries in Wyoming, 2010-2020
    Year Districts
    Democratic Republican Total
    # % # % # %
    2010 75 2 2.7% 30 40.0% 32 21.3%
    2012 75 2 2.7% 31 41.3% 33 22.0%
    2014 75 3 4.0% 34 45.3% 37 24.7%
    2016 75 2 2.7% 34 45.3% 36 24.0%
    2018 75 2 2.7% 26 34.7% 28 18.7%
    2020 75 6 8.0% 40 53.3% 46 30.7%


    See also:


    Terms and methodologies

    Primary

    See also: Primary election

    A primary is an election used either to narrow the field of candidates or to determine political parties' nominees in advance of a general election. Broadly, a state might use one of two types of primary systems for its state legislative elections: partisan or top-two/four.

    Partisan primaries

    See also: Open, closed, and semi-closed primary

    Partisan primaries are those where candidates from the same party compete against one another. The winning candidates receive their parties' nominations in order to appear on the general election ballot.

    Top-two/four primaries

    See also: Top-two primary and Top-four primary

    Top-two/four primaries are those where all candidates, regardless of their party affiliations, appear on the same primary ballot. Depending on the system in place, either the top-two or top-four vote-getters advance to the general election.

    Contested primary

    A contested primary is one where there are more candidates running than nominations available, meaning at least one candidate on the primary ballot must lose.

    The number of candidates needed to create a contested primary depends on the primary system in place and the number of seats up for election in a state legislative district.

    In states with partisan primaries, a primary is typically contested when two or more candidates from the same political party file to run since only one candidate can receive their party's nomination. In states with multi-member state legislative districts, the number of candidates a party can nominate to the general election ballot depends on the number of seats in the district. In these cases, a primary is contested when at least one more candidate files to run than there are seats in the district. In states with top-two/four primaries, a primary is contested when more than two (in states with a top-two system) or more than four (in states with a top-four system) candidates file to run.

    Possible primaries

    The number of possible primaries is determined by the number of districts holding elections and the primary system in place.

    In states with partisan primaries, there are two possible primaries per district, one for each of the two major parties. In states with top-two/four primaries, there is one possible primary per district, since every candidate appears on the same primary ballot.

    Methodology

    This page analyzes the total number of contested state legislative primaries by comparing the number of such primaries to the number of possible primaries.

    Ballotpedia considers a primary as contested when there are more candidates on the ballot than nominations available. If a candidate unofficially withdraws before the primary but remains on the ballot, that candidate is included in the total towards determining whether a primary is contested.

    In states with partisan primaries, only major party candidates and primaries are counted. In states with top-two/four primaries, all candidates—major party and otherwise—are counted.

    If a district uses a convention—a nominating contested reserved to a smaller number of participants usually referred to as delegates—as the sole means of nominating a candidate, that district is not included in the calculation of possible primaries. In 2020, no state legislative districts used conventions as the sole means of nomination. Two states—Connecticut and Utah—used a convention-primary system, where candidates could be nominated via a convention but, in both states, those contests still could have advanced to a primary.

    See also

    Footnotes