Ryan wins primary over populist challenger

In the end House Speaker Paul Ryan's GOP primary Tuesday turned out like most others from his 18-year career — a blowout win.

Despite laser-focused national attention on his otherwise sleepy intra-party match-up, Ryan's roots in Wisconsin's 1st District were too deep for political novice and Badger State newcomer Paul Nehlen to overcome.

"I am humbled and honored that Wisconsinites in the 1st Congressional District support my efforts to keep fighting on their behalf," Ryan said in a statement after his landslide victory. "Janna and I are grateful to have the support of so many in southern Wisconsin, and we are truly thankful for all of their hard work."

Nehlen catapulted to cable news fame after Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump tweeted supportive words at the water filtration company executive Aug. 1. That led to days of speculation that Trump intended to snub Ryan and endorse Nehlen. Trump finally relented and gave the 46-year-old Ryan a half-hearted stamp of approval on Friday.

Conservative pundits unhappy with Republican congressional leaders, including Sarah Palin and Sean Hannity, latched onto Nehlen and lent him their support. But it mostly motivated disaffected Republicans outside of Ryan's southeastern Wisconsin district.