The Democratic primary for Michigan's 7th Congressional District puts the high stakes for the party in the midterm elections on full display. That brand of progressive politics is about to get its biggest test yet, in midwestern swing states and competitive districts that could decide control of Congress. "It seems like that is a tradeoff that Democratic primary voters in places like Michigan are willing to accept," Smith said. "The real question in swing states is can they beat Republicans, which heretofore has been untested," said Tanden. Because, he says, a candidate who speaks with authenticity can attract swing voters.