Sydney Kashiwagi

The bruising primary exposed divisions among Democrats that Republicans are hoping to exploit in the general election.

In the DFL Senate primary, Flanagan shattered expectations by dominating areas where Angie Craig was anticipated to have strong support.

The lieutenant governor ran as an unabashed progressive, overcoming her better-funded moderate opponent, Rep. Angie Craig.

In other notable races, Scott Jensen toppled the GOP-endorsed candidate for state auditor, while reality TV star Luke Gulbranson lost his bid for the DFL nomination in northeastern Minnesota.

Tuesday’s matchup between Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan will test which flank of the Democratic Party is most energized.

Many of the areas where they differ on policy boil down to ideological beliefs.

Angie Craig and Peggy Flanagan are ending their primary race with strikingly similar messages but dramatically different theories of electability. The outcome will be the latest marker in the progressive vs. moderate contest playing out among Democrats nationwide.

The influx of outside spending indicates donors may be worried a progressive candidate could hurt their chances in November.

On Aug. 11, Democrats will choose between two progressive candidates and a moderate who is seeking to follow Craig’s political path.

Stauber said his fellow Republican is “fighting for his damn life,” but his office later walked back the comments.