via PBS News Hour - The Latest — David Brooks of The Atlantic and Jonathan Capehart of MS NOW join Amna Nawaz to discuss the week in politics, including this week's midterm primary results, the economy taking center stage, President Trump lashing out at key allies and the controversy surrounding a Trump aide.

California’s upcoming June 2 primary elections are unfolding in an atmosphere of widespread political uncertainty and voter frustration, according to political analysts and campaign observers. The race includes contests for key offices such as Los Angeles mayor, California governor, and several congressional seats, all of which are being influenced by dissatisfaction with both President Donald Trump and the state’s Democratic establishment. Across the political spectrum, voters are described as increasingly disillusioned. Republicans aligned with Trump are campaigning on criticism of long-standing Democratic leadership in California, arguing that it has failed to address persistent issues such as homelessness, housing affordability, and economic pressures. At the same time, Democrats are struggling to defend their record while also engaging in internal conflicts, with multiple candidates competing for influence and blaming each other for policy shortcomings. In Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass remains a leading candidate despite criticism over homelessness and wildfire response. Her challengers include City Councilmember Nithya Raman, representing a more progressive wing, and former reality TV personality Spencer Pratt, who has positioned himself as an anti-establishment figure with mixed political messaging that appeals to frustrated voters. The gubernatorial race is similarly fragmented, with no dominant Democratic frontrunner emerging. Candidates such as Xavier Becerra and billionaire Tom Steyer face scrutiny over past controversies and ideological tensions, while Republican Steve Hilton has gained attention by strongly criticizing California’s regulatory and economic environment. Meanwhile, redistricting changes following Proposition 50 have intensified congressional races, including competitive matchups between Republican incumbents in newly drawn districts. Political experts describe a broader sense of voter alienation driven by economic concerns, geopolitical instability, and distrust in political institutions. Analysts suggest that both parties are struggling to present compelling visions, leaving voters hesitant and undecided as the primary approaches. This uncertainty is further amplified by fears of national political polarization and local governance failures, contributing to what some describe as one of the most unsettled election cycles in recent California history.

Voters in Michigan and Virginia participated in primary elections on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, to select candidates for the November midterms. Key contests, including a high-stakes Democratic Senate primary in Michigan, highlighted ongoing internal party divisions over strategy and ideology following the 2024 presidential election. The results will shape the Democratic Party's approach to the upcoming general election and the composition of the 119th Congress.