Trump-backed donor loses Wyoming primary

Republican primary voters in Wyoming Tuesday chose the state treasurer over a Trump-backed GOP donor as their candidate for governor in November. Foster Friess received President Donald Trump’s endorsement and spent more than $2 million of his own money on the campaign, but rancher and state Treasurer Mark Gordon won the right to face Democratic state Rep. Mary Throne. Wyoming Republicans also favored incumbent U.S. Rep. Liz Cheney and U.S. Sen. John Barrasso in their primary races. Both are heavily favored to win reelection in the staunchly Republican state.

Alaska also held primaries Tuesday and set up an unusual three-way race for governor. Four years ago, Gov. Bill Walker lost in the Republican primary but won the general election by running as an independent on a unity ticket with Democrat Byron Mallott, who became lieutenant governor. Walker is running for reelection as an independent, but the Republican and Democratic parties chose candidates Tuesday, as well. Former state Sen. Mike Dunleavy is the GOP candidate, while former U.S. Sen. Mark Begich is the Democrat’s nominee.