Primary Goals: Republicans Try to Build Red Wall, Democrats Seek Blue Wave

It's a red wall versus a blue wave.Democrats and Republicans on Tuesday picked their party's nominees for the November general election with different goals in mind.Republicans enjoy a structural advantage in statewide elections, and midterm contest are usually opportunities to boost their majorities and extend clout. Democrats are rebuilding and trying to be competitive.But this year, based on the enthusiasm among the high number of primary voters, Democrats have the rare opportunity to make gains in Texas.While U.S. Rep. Beto O'Rourke, D-El Paso, is running a strong campaign for Senate against incumbent Republican Ted Cruz, the long suffering party isn't expected to move the needle in contest for governor or other statewide offices. The contenders for governor in the May 22 runoff, former Dallas County sheriff Lupe Valdez and Houston investor Andrew White, have yet to prove they can match incumbent Greg Abbott and his resources.  Continue reading...