Royce White Wins Senate Primary After Controversial Comments on Women

Former NBA player Royce White has emerged victorious in the Minnesota Republican primary, securing 38.5% of the vote in a competitive eight-candidate race. White, who gained traction after receiving endorsements from state party delegates, will now challenge incumbent Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar in the upcoming general election. Despite his primary success, political analysts view White as a longshot against Klobuchar, who boasts significant popularity and a substantial fundraising advantage. White's journey from basketball to politics has been marked by controversy. Known for his outspoken views, he has made headlines for his comments on various social issues, including conspiracy theories related to the coronavirus and remarks deemed derogatory towards women. His association with far-right figures, including Steve Bannon, has galvanized support among anti-establishment Republicans, but also raised concerns about his electability in a state that has leaned Democratic in recent years. In the primary, White defeated establishment candidate Joe Fraser, who argued that a more moderate Republican could better compete against Klobuchar. Fraser's concession highlighted the challenges White faces, as Klobuchar has consistently won re-election with over 60% of the vote. With only $132,721 raised for his campaign compared to Klobuchar's $18.9 million, White's path to victory appears daunting. As the general election approaches, White aims to broaden the Republican base by appealing to disillusioned voters of color. However, his controversial past and polarizing statements may hinder his efforts to gain widespread support in a state that has not elected a Republican to the Senate since 2006.