Pros:
1. Increased competition can push candidates to be more responsive and accountable to their constituents.
2. A primary challenge can bring fresh perspectives and ideas to the table, enriching the electoral discourse.
3. It provides an opportunity for voters to express their preferences and potentially reshape the direction of the candidate’s platform.
4. The challenge may lead to a more vigorous and engaging campaign, generating greater interest and voter turnout.
5. The primary can offer a platform to address issues and concerns that may have been overlooked or neglected in the past.
Cons:
1. Internal party disputes and primary challenges can create division within a political party.
2. A primary challenge can divert resources and attention away from other important issues or races.
3. Negative campaigning during a primary can damage the reputation and credibility of the candidates involved.
4. The challenge may fracture the base of support, resulting in potential weakening of overall party unity.
5. Primary challenges can be time-consuming and costly, possibly draining resources that could have been utilized in the general election campaign.
context: https://www.axios.com/local/twin-cities/2023/11/12/ilhan-omar-democratic-primary-don-samuels-israel
U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar now has a primary challenger, Democrat Don Samuels, according to Axios.