Senator Markwayne Mullin's seat is widely expected to remain in Republican hands.

March 5 (Reuters) - Senate Democrats are ready to restart negotiations on legislation to speed permitting large infrastructure projects, two lawmakers announced on Thursday, saying they were encouraged by the Trump administration's recent moves to review renewable energy project applications that had been stalled.

State Rep. James Talarico topped Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett in Texas' closely watched Democratic Senate primary.

Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut said Democrats had evidence to suggest Kristi Noem lied under oath during a Senate hearing on Tuesday.

GOP Sen. Steve Daines made the last-minute decision to abruptly pull out of his Senate race to prevent Democrats from fielding a top recruit for the open Montana seat, according to two sources familiar with the matter.

The heavy favorites in the Senate primary are former Gov. Roy Cooper, a moderate Democrat, and Michael Whatley, a former chairman of the Republican National Committee.

Although Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and other establishment figures have lined up behind Maine Gov. Janet Mills, first-time candidate Graham Platner continues to pick up support.