Top Qs
Timeline
Chat
Perspective
2026 United States gubernatorial elections
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Remove ads
United States gubernatorial elections are scheduled to be held on November 3, 2026, in 36 states and three territories. The previous gubernatorial elections for this group of states took place in 2022, except in New Hampshire and Vermont, where governors serve two-year terms and elected their governors in 2024. 15 of the 36 states with elections in this cycle have officially term-limited incumbents, while two of the three United States territories with elections this cycle have officially term-limited incumbents.
There are two Republican governors up for reelection in states Kamala Harris won in 2024, and there are five states with Democratic governors that were won by Donald Trump.
Remove ads
Predictions
Summarize
Perspective
Several sites and individuals published predictions of competitive seats. These predictions looked at factors such as the strength of the incumbent (if the incumbent was running for reelection) and the other candidates, and the state's partisan lean (reflected in part by the state's Cook Partisan Voting Index rating). The predictions assigned ratings to each seat, indicating the predicted advantage that a party had in winning that seat. Most election predictors used:
- "tossup" or "battleground": no advantage
- "tilt" (used by some predictors): advantage that is not quite as strong as "lean"
- "lean": slight advantage
- "likely": significant, but surmountable, advantage
- "safe" or "solid": near-certain chance of victory
Remove ads
Race summary
States
Territories and federal district
Remove ads
Alabama
Governor Kay Ivey, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 67.4% of the vote. She will be term-limited by the Constitution of Alabama in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive full term.
Republican U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville entered the race for governor in May 2025.[10] Ken McFeeters, a candidate for Alabama's 6th congressional district in 2024, is also mounting a campaign.[9] Huntsville mayor Tommy Battle and businessman Tim James, the son of former governor Fob James and a candidate for governor in 2002, 2010, and 2022, are considered potential Republican candidates.[182][183]
Democratic candidates are Will Boyd, a former city councilor of Greenville, Illinois and the nominee for Alabama Lieutenant Governor in 2018 and for U.S. Senate in 2022, pastor Ja'Mel Brown, and candidate for governor in 2022 Chad Chig Martin.[6][7][8]
Alaska
Governor Mike Dunleavy, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 50.3% of the vote. He will be term-limited by the Constitution of Alaska in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
For the Republicans, Matanuska-Susitna Borough mayor Edna DeVries has launched a campaign, as have State Senator Shelley Hughes, businesswoman Bernadette Wilson and Matt Heliala, a member of the Alaska State Medical Board.[13][15][12][14] Former State Senator Click Bishop and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Dahlstrom have both filed paperwork to run for governor, although both have yet to make any formal announcement of candidacy.[184]
Tom Begich, a former state senator who was the Democratic leader in the State Senate, has announced a campaign.[11] Despite filing paperwork to run for her old seat,[185] former Democratic U.S. Representative Mary Peltola has also expressed interest in running for governor,[186][187] though Begich has said he expects Peltola to run for U.S. Senate.[188]
Remove ads
Arizona
Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, was elected in 2022 with 50.3% of the vote. Starting with this election cycle, gubernatorial candidates will be required to nominate a running mate for the newly-established office of Lieutenant Governor. Hobbs is running for a second term.[189] Secretary of State Adrian Fontes was considering a primary challenge, but later declined to run.[190]
United States Representative from Arizona's 5th congressional district Andy Biggs[16] and former Arizona Board of Regents member Karrin Taylor Robson[191] have announced their candidacies for the Republican nomination; President Donald Trump has endorsed both candidates.[192] State Treasurer Kimberly Yee had also expressed interest in mounting a campaign, but instead announced she would run for state superintendent.[193][194]
Remove ads
Arkansas
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, a Republican, was elected in 2022 with 63.1% of the vote. She is running for re-election to a second term.[19]
Democratic state senator Fredrick Love has announced a campaign for the Democratic nomination.[18]
California
Summarize
Perspective
Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom was re-elected in 2022 with 59.2% of the vote. He is term-limited by the California Constitution in 2026, and cannot seek re-election to a third term.
On the Democratic side, State Senate President Toni Atkins, former US Secretary of Health and Human Services and former California Attorney General Xavier Becerra, businessman Steve Cloobeck, former congresswoman for California's 47th congressional district Katie Porter, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, and former Controller Betty Yee have all announced their bids.[22][21][195][34][35][37] Fiona Ma, State Treasurer, and Eleni Kounalakis, Lieutenant Governor, both initially announced runs for governor, but later withdrew. Ma instead chose to run for lieutenant governor, and Kounalakis pivoted to a campaign for State Treasurer.[196][197]
Rick Caruso, a candidate for mayor of Los Angeles in 2022, has expressed interest in running.[198]
Former Vice President of the United States and 2024 Democratic nominee for President Kamala Harris had considered running, having long been interested in leading the country's largest economy and becoming the nation's first black female governor,[199][200] but ultimately decided not to enter the race.[201]
On the Republican side, pastor Ché Ahn, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, political commentator Steve Hilton, construction manager Kyle Langford, and businessman David Serpa have all announced campaigns.[20][202][203][204][205]
Butch Ware, the Green Party's nominee for Vice President in 2024, has announced a campaign.[206]
Remove ads
Colorado
Governor Jared Polis, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 58.5% of the vote. He will be term-limited by the Colorado Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
U.S. Senator for Colorado Michael Bennet and State Attorney General Phil Weiser have each declared their candidacy for the Democratic nomination.[39][207] Other potential Democratic candidates include former U.S. Ambassador to Mexico and former U.S. Senator Ken Salazar.[208]
On the Republican side, state senator Mark Baisley, state representative Scott Bottoms, former U.S. Representative for Colorado's 4th congressional district Greg Lopez, and Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell have all announced campaigns.[209][210][211][212] State senator Barbara Kirkmeyer has also expressed interest in a campaign.[213]
Former DaVita CEO Kent Thiry was speculated to be considering an independent bid, but told Colorado Public Radio that he would not run.[214]
Remove ads
Connecticut
Summarize
Perspective
Governor Ned Lamont, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 56% of the vote. Because Connecticut does not have gubernatorial term limits in its Constitution, he is eligible to run for re-election to a third term. Lamont has expressed interest in running but has not yet confirmed whether or not he will do so.[215] State Representative for the 88th district Josh Elliott has announced that he is running for the Democratic nomination for governor regardless of if Lamont chooses to run for a third term.[45]
If Lamont ultimately decides not to run for re-election, a number of other Democrats may look to run, with potential candidates including Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, Comptroller Sean Scanlon, and Attorney General William Tong.[216] Former Hartford mayor Luke Bronin was considered a potential Democratic candidate, but he instead launched a primary challenge to Congressman John B. Larson in Connecticut's 1st district.[217]
On the Republican side, first selectwoman of Westport Jennifer Tooker and State Senator for the 36th district Ryan Fazio have announced their candidacies.[47][46] New Britain mayor Erin Stewart has formed an exploratory committee.[218][219] Perennial candidate Peter Lumaj has expressed interest in running for the Republican nomination for Governor.[220]
Bar owner and former U.S. Senate candidate Matt Corey is running for the Republican nomination for Lieutenant Governor.[216]
Florida
Summarize
Perspective
Republican Governor Ron DeSantis was re-elected in 2022 with 59.4% of the vote. He is term-limited by the Florida Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
U.S. representative for Florida's 19th congressional district Byron Donalds announced his bid for governor on February 25, 2025, becoming the first major Republican to enter the race.[48]
Former nominee for U.S. Attorney General and former U.S. representative for Florida's 1st congressional district Matt Gaetz is widely seen as a potential candidate for the Republican nomination.[221][222][223][224] Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, former Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez, Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, and Mayor of Miami Francis Suarez are also seen as potential Republican contenders.[225][226][227][228] There is also speculation that current First Lady of Florida Casey DeSantis might launch a bid to succeed her husband.[229]
Former Republican U.S. representative for Florida's 13th congressional district David Jolly, a staunch critic of Donald Trump, joined the Democratic Party in 2025 and announced his candidacy for Governor of Florida in June of that year.[50] State Senator Shevrin Jones, Florida's first openly gay Black state senator, is seen as a potential candidate for the Democratic nomination.[230] State House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell is also considered a potential candidate for the Democrats.[231]
Former State Senate Minority Leader Jason Pizzo was considered a potential candidate for the Democratic Party, but became an independent in May 2025 and subsequently launched an independent bid for governor.[232][233]
Moliere Dimanche declared his candidacy on July 1, 2024, as an independent candidate, and the first Haitian candidate for governor in Florida's history.[234]
Remove ads
Georgia
Summarize
Perspective
Republican Governor Brian Kemp was re-elected in 2022 with 53.4% of the vote. He is term-limited by the Georgia Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
Attorney General Christopher M. Carr and Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones have announced bids for the Republican nomination.[54][57]
Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, former U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler, and Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger are seen as potential Republican candidates.[235][236][237]
On the Democratic side, state senator Jason Esteves, former Mayor of Atlanta and former director of the White House Office of Public Engagement Keisha Lance Bottoms, and state representative Derrick Jackson have all announced campaigns.[55][52][56] Former State House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams, who was the nominee for governor in 2018 and 2022, has expressed interest in running for the nomination while Mayor of Atlanta Andre Dickens and U.S. Representative from Georgia's 6th congressional district Lucy McBath are seen as potential candidates.[238][239][240] Former Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan, a Republican critic of Donald Trump, may run for governor as a Democrat.[241]
Remove ads
Hawaii
Governor Josh Green, a Democrat, was elected in 2022 with 63.2% of the vote. He is eligible to run for re-election but has not yet stated if he will do so.
Idaho
Governor Brad Little, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 60.5% of the vote. Because Idaho does not have gubernatorial term limits in its Constitution, he is eligible to run for re-election to a third term, but has not yet stated whether he will do so.
Illinois
Governor JB Pritzker, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 54.9% of the vote and is running for a third term.[61] Other potential Democratic candidates include former U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel.[242]
On the Republican side, DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick has announced his candidacy.[243] Potential Republican candidates include former state senator and 2022 gubernatorial nominee Darren Bailey, former Cook County Republican Party chair Aaron Del Mar and Republican national committeeman Richard Porter.[244]
Iowa
Summarize
Perspective
Governor Kim Reynolds, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 58.1% of the vote. While she is eligible to run for re-election to a third full term, she has decided not to run.[245]
Republican candidates include state representative Eddie Andrews, U.S. Representative for Iowa's 4th congressional district Randy Feenstra, and former state representative Brad Sherman, the latter of whom initially challenged Reynolds in a primary and is continuing his campaign now that Reynolds has retired.[64][66][68] State senator Mike Bousselot has formed an exploratory committee for the Republican nomination.[246] Senate president Amy Sinclair has expressed interest in mounting a campaign.[247] House Speaker Pat Grassley initially declined to run, opting instead to run for re-election in 2026, but expressed interest in mounting a campaign in April 2025,[248] before ultimately choosing to run for re-election and forego a bid for governor.[249] Attorney General Brenna Bird, state representative Bobby Kaufmann, and Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig all expressed interest in running for governor,[250][248][251] but all ultimately chose not to enter the race.[252][253][254] Other potential candidates include businessman Bob Vander Plaats, who was the GOP nominee for lieutenant governor in 2006 and candidate for governor in 2002, 2006, and 2010, and Matthew Whitaker, the U.S. Ambassador to NATO and nominee for Treasurer of Iowa in 2002 and candidate for U.S. Senate in 2014.[255]
On the Democratic side, State Auditor Rob Sand declared his candidacy for Governor in May 2025. Sand is the only Democratic statewide officeholder in Iowa.[67] Other Democrats running include Julie Stauch, who was the Iowa political director for Pete Buttigieg's 2020 presidential campaign.[69]
Kansas
Summarize
Perspective
Governor Laura Kelly, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 49.5% of the vote. She will be term limited by the Kansas Constitution and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
State senators Ethan Corson and Cindy Holscher are running for the Democratic nomination, with Corson receiving the support of Governor Kelly.[73][75][256] State Senate minority leader Dinah Sykes has expressed interest in mounting a campaign.[257] Former Kansas Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz is seen as a potential Democratic candidate, as is attorney Chris Mann, who was the Democratic nominee for Attorney General in 2022.[258][259][260]
Former Governor of Kansas Jeff Colyer, State Senate President Ty Masterson, Kansas Insurance Commissioner Vicki Schmidt, Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab, and Johnson County Commissioner Charlotte O'Hara have all announced their candidacies for the Republican nomination.[72][80][77] Former president of the Kansas City Royals Dayton Moore and Kansas Attorney General Kris Kobach are other potential Republican candidates.[261][258][262][263] Former U.S. representative Jake LaTurner was seen as a potential candidate on the Republican side, but said in April 2024 that he would not run for any state offices in 2026.[264]
Maine
Summarize
Perspective
Governor Janet Mills, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 55.4% of the vote. She will be term-limited by the Maine Constitution, and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
Democratic candidates include Secretary of State Shenna Bellows, former State Senate President Troy Jackson, businessman Angus King III, the son of independent U.S. Senator and former Maine governor Angus King, and former State House Speaker Hannah Pingree, who also served as Director of the Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future in the Mills administration and is the daughter of U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree.[81][87][89][94] Former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention principal deputy director Nirav D. Shah has expressed interest in running for the Democratic nomination, as has former Portland City Councilor Spencer Thibodeau.[265][266] State House Speaker Ryan Fecteau, businessman Dan Kleban, and state senator Rachel Talbot Ross, who is a former State House Speaker, have been mentioned as other possible candidates for the Democratic nomination.[267][268][266]
On the Republican side, retired financial analyst Kenneth Capron, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Robert Charles, real estate businessman David Jones, state senator and candidate for governor in 2002 James Libby, entrepreneur Owen McCarthy, businessman Ben Midgley, and former Paris selectman Robert Wessels have all announced campaigns.[83][84][88][90][95][92][91] Healthcare executive and member of the Bush family Jonathan Bush has formed an exploratory committee.[269] Former state senate majority leader and candidate for governor in 2018 Garrett Mason, motivational speaker Travis Mills, and businessman Shawn Moody, who was the 2018 Republican nominee for governor, have each expressed interest in mounting campaigns.[270][271][272] Potential candidates include former U.S. Ambassador to Costa Rica Peter Cianchette, who was also the 2002 Republican nominee for governor, former mayor of Auburn Jason Levesque, state representative Laurel Libby, former U.S. Representative for Maine's 2nd congressional district Bruce Poliquin, and state senator Trey Stewart.[266][267][273][274]
State Senator Rick Bennett, formerly a Republican, is running as an independent.[82] Democratic State Representative Ed Crockett is also running as an independent, as is environmental scientist and activist John Glowa, who failed to qualify for the Democratic primary ballot in 2022.[85][86]
Maryland
Governor Wes Moore, a Democrat, was elected in 2022 with 64.5% of the vote. He is eligible to run for re-election and intends to run for a second term.[100] Businessman Ed Hale initially challenged Moore in the Democratic primary,[275][276] but announced in August 2025 that he would run as a Republican instead.[99]
On the Republican side, state delegate Christopher Eric Bouchat, farmer Kurt Wedekind, and John Myrick, a candidate for U.S. Senate in 2024, have announced their candidacies for governor.[96][102][277] Former governor and 2024 U.S. Senate nominee Larry Hogan is seen as a potential Republican or independent candidate.[278][276]
Massachusetts
Governor Maura Healey, a Democrat, was elected in 2022 with 63.7% of the vote. As there are no term limits for the office of governor in Massachusetts, Healey is running for re-election for a second term in office.[104]
On the Republican side, former Massachusetts Secretary of Housing and Economic Development Mike Kennealy and former chief administrator and acting general manager of the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Brian Shortsleeve have announced their candidacies.[105][279] State senator Peter Durant, Worcester County Sheriff Lewis Evangelidis, and state representative Michael Soter have all publicly expressed interest in mounting a campaign.[280][281][282] Potential GOP candidates include former lieutenant governor Karyn Polito, and State Senate minority leader Bruce Tarr.[283][284]
Michigan
Summarize
Perspective
Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer was re-elected in 2022 with 54.5% of the vote. She is term-limited by the Michigan Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third term.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist and Genessee County Sheriff Chris Swanson have announced their bids for the Democratic nomination.[107][117][110] Marni Sawicki, the former mayor of Cape Coral, Florida, who moved to Michigan in 2021, has also announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination.[116]
Former Attorney General Mike Cox, Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, and U.S. Representative for Michigan's 10th congressional district John James have announced bids for the Republican nomination.[108][114][112] William Null, who was acquitted for charges relating to the Gretchen Whitmer kidnapping plot, has also announced his run.[115] 2022 Republican nominee for governor Tudor Dixon had announced that she was considering running for either Governor or for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Democrat Gary Peters in 2026, but ultimately decided not to enter either race.[285][286]
Detroit mayor Mike Duggan, a former Democrat, announced his intention to run for governor as an independent in December 2024.[109]
Minnesota
Summarize
Perspective
Governor Tim Walz, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 52.3% of the vote. Because Minnesota does not have gubernatorial term limits in its Constitution, he is eligible to run for re-election to a third term but has not yet stated whether he will do so. Since the adoption of four-year terms in 1962,[k] no Minnesota governor has won a third term. Walz was nominated as his party's candidate for vice president in the 2024 presidential election, which he ended up losing to JD Vance.[288] Secretary of State Steve Simon is considered a potential candidate should Walz decline to run.[289]
On the Republican side, former state senator and nominee for governor in 2022 Scott Jensen is running, as are former St. Cloud city councilor Jeff Johnson[l] and Kendall Qualls, nominee for Minnesota's 3rd congressional district in 2020, and candidate for governor in 2022.[118][290][291] Former mixed martial artist Brad Kohler has filed paperwork to run for the Republican nomination.[292] State senator Zach Duckworth, former State Senate Minority Leader David Hann, and My Pillow CEO Mike Lindell have all publicly expressed interest in mounting campaigns.[293][294][295][296]
Nebraska
Governor Jim Pillen, a Republican, was elected in 2022 with 59.7% of the vote. He is running for re-election to a second term.[124]
Former union leader Dan Osborn, who ran as an independent in the 2024 regular Senate election, was considered a potential candidate, but instead announced a run for U.S. Senate.[297]
Nevada
Governor Joe Lombardo, a Republican, was elected in 2022 with 48.8% of the vote and is running for re-election to a second term in office.[128] Businesswoman Irina Hansen, who ran for Mayor of Las Vegas in 2024, is challenging Lombardo in the GOP primary. State attorney general Aaron D. Ford is running for the Democratic nomination.[126]
New Hampshire
Governor Kelly Ayotte, a Republican who was elected in 2024 with 53.6% of the vote, has not stated whether she will run for re-election yet. New Hampshire elects its governors on a two-year cycle.
Former state senator Tom Sherman, who was the Democratic nominee for governor in 2022, has publicly expressed interest in running for governor again in 2026.[298]
Businessman Jon Kiper, who ran for the 2024 Democratic gubernatorial nomination, is running in 2026 as an independent.[129]
New Mexico
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 52.0% of the vote. She will be term-limited by the New Mexico Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
Previous U.S. Secretary of the Interior and former U.S. Representative Deb Haaland has declared her candidacy for the Democratic nomination, as has Bernalillo County District Attorney and former Democratic Party of New Mexico chairman Sam Bregman and Ken Miyagishima, former mayor of Las Cruces.[131][130][133] Howie Morales, the incumbent Lieutenant Governor, had expressed interest in running for the Democratic nomination, but ultimately chose not to run.[299]
On the Republican side, Rio Rancho mayor Gregg Hull has announced his candidacy.[300] Former New Mexico Supreme Court chief justice Judith Nakamura and former secretary of the New Mexico Human Services Department Duke Rodriguez have both expressed interest in mounting campaigns for the Republican nomination.[301][302] Voice actor Greg Baldwin has expressed interest in running for governor as an independent.[303]
New York
Summarize
Perspective
Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, took office in 2021 upon the resignation of Andrew Cuomo and was elected to a full term in 2022 with 53.2% of the vote. On July 2, 2024, she announced her intention to seek re-election to a second full term.[304] Incumbent lieutenant governor Antonio Delgado announced a primary challenge Hochul in June 2025.[134] Congressman Ritchie Torres from New York's 15th congressional district has expressed interest in mounting a primary challenge to Hochul after openly criticizing her administration.[305] Former U.S. Representative from New York's 16th congressional district Jamaal Bowman has also expressed interest in running for governor, along with other offices.[306]
For the Republicans, Bethany town supervisor Carl Hyde Jr. is running.[307] U.S. Representative Mike Lawler of New York's 17th congressional district was widely seen as a potential Republican challenger,[m] but ultimately chose to run for re-election.[314] Former lieutenant governor Betsy McCaughey, who was the Liberal Party of New York candidate for governor in 1998, has expressed interest in mounting a campaign for the GOP nomination, as has U.S. Representative for New York's 21st congressional district Elise Stefanik, and businessman and candidate for Mayor of New York City in 2013 John Catsimatidis.[315][316] Other potential Republican candidates include Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin.[313]
Ohio
Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 62.4% of the vote. He will be term-limited by the Ohio Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
On the Republican side, former Morgan County School Board President Heather Hill has announced his candidacy,[317][318] as has Biotech entrepreneur and former candidate for the Republican Party nomination in the 2024 United States presidential election Vivek Ramaswamy.[319][320] Ohio attorney general Dave Yost, who announced his candidacy for governor in January 2025, withdrew from the race and endorsed Ramaswamy in May 2025.[321]
As for Democrats, former Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Amy Acton has said she will run for Governor.[322] Former U.S. Representative and 2022 U.S. Senate nominee Tim Ryan has expressed interest in running, as have former Ohio Democratic Party Chairman Chris Redfern.[323][324][325] Former U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown had expressed interested in running, but announced in August of 2025 that he would run in the 2026 United States Senate special election in Ohio.[326]
Oklahoma
Governor Kevin Stitt, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 55.4% of the vote. He will be term-limited by the Oklahoma Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third term.
Attorney General Gentner Drummond, former Oklahoma Secretary of Budget Mike Mazzei, former Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives Charles McCall, and former state senator Jake A. Merrick are all seeking the Republican nomination.[140][142][143][144] Other potential Republican candidates include Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell, State Senate President Greg Treat, and State Superintendent of Public Instruction Ryan Walters.[327][328][329]
On the Democratic side, state representative Cyndi Munson is running for governor.[145]
Oregon
Governor Tina Kotek, a Democrat, was elected in 2022 with 47% of the vote. She is eligible to run for re-election, but has not yet stated if she will do so.
On the Republican side Marion County commissioner Danielle Bethell, geonomics researcher Kyle Duyck, and candidate for Oregon Commissioner of Labor in 2022 Robert Neuman have announced candidacies.[330] Former professional mixed martial artist Chael Sonnen has expressed interest in running for governor.[331]
Pennsylvania
Governor Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, was elected in 2022 with 56.5% of the vote. He is eligible to run for reelection but has not stated if he plans to do so.
Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity, a Republican, has announced a campaign.[148] State Senators Doug Mastriano, the Republican nominee against Shapiro in 2022, and Scott Martin, a candidate for governor in 2022, are also considering running.[332][333] The U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania's 9th congressional district, Dan Meuser, was endorsed by Donald Trump, but Meuser declined to run.[334][335][336]
Rhode Island
Governor Dan McKee, a Democrat, took office in 2021 upon the resignation of Gina Raimondo and was elected to a full term in 2022 with 58.1% of the vote. Because McKee served less than two years of Raimondo's term, he is eligible to run for re-election to a second consecutive full term. He announced on March 3, 2025, that he would do so.[150] Raimondo has also expressed interest in running for another term.[337]
Helena Foulkes, former executive with CVS Pharmacy and candidate for governor in 2022, has expressed interest in running either as a Democrat or independent.[338] Other potential Democratic candidates include Attorney General Peter Neronha, State House Speaker Joe Shekarchi, and restaurateur Greg Stevens.[339][340][341]
On the Republican side, state senate minority leader Jessica de la Cruz and 2022 gubernatorial nominee Ashley Kalus are considered potential candidates.[342][343]
South Carolina
Governor Henry McMaster, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 58.1% of the vote. He will be term-limited by the South Carolina Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive full term.
Republican state senator Josh Kimbrell, Attorney General Alan Wilson, Lieutenant Governor Pamela Evette, U.S. Representative Ralph Norman, and U.S. Representative Nancy Mace have announced their campaigns.[152][156][151][155][153] Other possible Republican candidates include State Senate Majority Leader A. Shane Massey, U.S. Senator Tim Scott, and businessman and 2018 gubernatorial candidate John Warren.[344][345]
For the Democrats, attorney Mullins McLeod has announced a campaign.[154] State representative Jermaine Johnson has formed an exploratory committee to prepare a run for governor.[346]
South Dakota
Governor Larry Rhoden, a Republican, took office in 2025 upon the resignation of Kristi Noem to become Secretary of Homeland Security.[347] Noem was re-elected in 2022 with 62% of the vote. Rhoden has not yet announced whether he will seek a full term as governor,[348] but has expressed interest in doing so.[349]
Speaker of the South Dakota House of Representatives Jon Hansen and U.S. Representative Dusty Johnson have both launched campaigns for the Republican nomination for governor, as has real estate entrepreneur Toby Doerden.[158][350][160]
On the Democratic side, college student Robert Arnold has announced his candidacy.[157]
Tennessee
Governor Bill Lee, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 64.9% of the vote. He will be term-limited by the Tennessee Constitution in 2026 and cannot seek re-election to a third consecutive term.
U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn[161] and U.S. Representative for Tennessee's 6th congressional district John Rose are running for the Republicann nomination.[163] U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty and State House Speaker Cameron Sexton have been named as potential Republican candidates.[351][352] U.S. Representatives Andy Ogles and Tim Burchett are said to be considering running.[353] Diana Harshbarger, U.S. Representative for from Tennessee's 1st congressional district, had expressed interest in running if Blackburn had chosen not to run.[354]
For the Democrats, Memphis city councilor Jerri Green has announced a campaign.[355] State representative John Ray Clemmons and former U.S. Representative from Tennessee's 5th congressional district Jim Cooper are considered potential candidates.[356]
Texas
Governor Greg Abbott, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 54.8% of the vote. Because Texas does not have gubernatorial term limits in its Constitution, he is eligible to run for re-election to a fourth term. On March 1, 2024, Abbott announced his intention to seek re-election.[164]
For the Democrats, rancher Bobby Cole, Bay City councilor Ben Flores, and teacher Megan Tehseldar have all announced campaigns.[357][358][359] James Talarico, state representative from the 50th district, has expressed interest in mounting a campaign for the Democratic nomination.[360] U.S. representative from Texas's 20th congressional district Joaquin Castro, Dave Clark, a former Amazon executive and former CEO of Flexport, Mayor of San Antonio Ron Nirenberg, and Beto O'Rourke, former U.S. representative from Texas's 16th congressional district (2013–2019), nominee for governor in 2022, nominee for U.S. Senate in 2018, and candidate for president in 2020 are all seen as potential Democratic candidates.[361][362][363][364]
Vermont
Governor Phil Scott, a Republican, was re-elected in 2024 with 73.4% of the vote. He is eligible to run for re-election to a sixth two-year term, but has not yet stated if he will do so. Dean Roy, a middle schooler from Stowe, is running as a member of the Freedom and Unity Party.[365]
Wisconsin
Governor Tony Evers, a Democrat, was re-elected in 2022 with 51.2% of the vote. Because Wisconsin does not have gubernatorial term limits in its Constitution, he was eligible to run for re-election to a third term, but Evers announced on July 24, 2025 that he would not seek re-election.[168]
Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez has announced her campaign for the Democratic nomination.[171] Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, Attorney General Josh Kaul, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, state senator Kelda Roys, and former Wisconsin Democratic party chairman Ben Wikler are all seen as possible Democratic candidates.[366][367][368][369]
On the Republican side, Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann has announced a campaign.[173] State senator Patrick Testin and U.S. Representative for Wisconsin's 7th congressional district Tom Tiffany have all expressed interest in running.[369][370] Businessman Eric Hovde, the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in 2024, former lieutenant governor Rebecca Kleefisch, and Will Martin, candidate for lieutenant governor in 2022, have been mentioned as potential Republican candidates.[369]
Wyoming
Governor Mark Gordon, a Republican, was re-elected in 2022 with 74.1% of the vote. State law limits the Governor to two consecutive terms, but Gordon has not ruled out challenging the law's constitutionality and seeking a third term.[371]
State senator Eric Barlow,[175] civil engineer Brent Bien, and web designer Joseph Kibler are running for the Republican nomination.[372][176]
President Donald Trump has encouraged Republican state senator Bo Biteman to run for the position in 2026.[373] U.S. Representative for Wyoming's at-large congressional district Harriet Hageman and State Treasurer Curt Meier have both expressed interest in running.[374][176]
Territories and federal district
District of Columbia
Mayor Muriel Bowser was re-elected in 2022 with 74.6% of the vote. She is eligible to run for re-election to a fourth term, but has not yet stated whether she will do so.
Guam
Governor Lou Leon Guerrero was re-elected in 2022 with 55.5% of the vote. She will be term limited in 2026 and cannot seek re-election for a third consecutive term. Lieutenant Governor Josh Tenorio, a Democrat elected alongside Leon Guerrero, announced in 2023 that he would pursue the governorship in 2026.[180]
Northern Mariana Islands
Governor David M. Apatang, an independent, took office in 2025 upon the death of Arnold Palacios. Palacios was elected in 2022 with 54.1% of the vote. Apatang is eligible to run for a full term, but has not yet stated whether he will do so. Independent Blas T. Attao has announced a campaign.[181]
U.S. Virgin Islands
Governor Albert Bryan was re-elected in 2022 with 56.1% of the vote. He will be term limited in 2026 and cannot seek re-election for a third consecutive term.
Notes
- Ivey took office after her predecessor, Robert J. Bentley, resigned. She was subsequently elected in 2018.
- Reynolds took office after her predecessor, Terry Branstad, resigned. She was subsequently elected in 2018.
- Hochul took office after her predecessor, Andrew Cuomo, resigned. She was subsequently elected in 2022.
- McKee took office after his predecessor, Gina Raimondo, resigned. He was subsequently elected in 2022.
- McMaster took office after his predecessor, Nikki Haley, resigned. He was subsequently elected in 2018.
- Rhoden took office after his predecessor, Kristi Noem, resigned.
- Gordon is term-limited and ineligible to seek a third consecutive term in 2026. However, he has not ruled out the possibility of challenging Wyoming's term-limits law in court. The Wyoming Supreme Court previously ruled that the law was unconstitutional for elections to the Wyoming State Legislature.
- Apatang took office after his predecessor, Arnold Palacios, died.
- via Constitutional referendum in 1958[287]
- Not to be confused with the 2018 Republican nominee for governor, also named Jeff Johnson
References
Wikiwand - on
Seamless Wikipedia browsing. On steroids.
Remove ads