- Governors
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Massachusetts Heads Into a Sept. 1 Primary Dominated by a Generational Fight Over Ed Markey’s Senate Seat
Massachusetts voters will decide in a primary election on September 1 if 79-year-old Sen. Ed Markey should be renominated over Rep. Seth Moulton, who advocates for generational change. Early voting is from August 22-28, with registration closing August 22. The election includes races for governor, U.S. House, and district attorney positions, amid various ballot questions…
Cook Political Report Moves Texas and Iowa Senate Races to Toss Up, Shifts Both Governor Races Toward Democrats
The Cook Political Report has shifted the Texas and Iowa Senate races from Lean Republican to Toss Up, while also moving both states’ gubernatorial races in favor of Democrats. The changes reflect scrutiny of Republican candidates and a changing political landscape, signaling competitive elections in traditionally safe Republican states.
Two Democrats Lead Crowded Alaska Governor Field; Peltola Tops Sullivan as Both Advance
Alaska’s recent nonpartisan primary elections highlighted competitive Senate and House races, with counting ongoing in a crowded governor’s race. Former Rep. Mary Peltola leads incumbent Sen. Dan Sullivan, while Rep. Nick Begich III maintains a lead over independent Bill Hill. Voter support for reinstating campaign contribution limits is strong, with about 70% in favor.
Barlow Upsets Trump-Backed Degenfelder in Wyoming Governor’s Race; Hageman, Gray Win Crowded Federal Primaries
Wyoming held its first three-way open race for governor, Senate, and House in 32 years on August 18, resulting in state Sen. Eric Barlow’s unexpected victory over Trump’s endorsed candidate for governor. Other key outcomes include Harriet Hageman’s successful Senate bid and Chuck Gray’s win in the U.S. House primary.
Donalds, Jolly Advance in Florida Governor’s Race; Nixon Upsets Vindman in Senate Primary as GOP Incumbent Falls in FL-07
Florida’s primary elections on August 18 featured significant developments, including Byron Donalds and David Jolly securing nominations for governor. Senator Ashley Moody and Democrat Angie Nixon also advanced in their races. A new congressional map influenced primaries, culminating in notable incumbent losses, especially in the 7th District, shaping the upcoming November elections.
Stein Vetoes Bills Cutting Primary Early Voting, Expanding Chief Justice’s Power Over Judges
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein vetoed two bills aimed at altering election procedures and the authority of the Supreme Court’s chief justice. House Bill 958 seeks to shorten early voting and allow ballot challenges, while House Bill 377 grants chief justice suspension powers over judges. Both vetoed bills will return to a legislature unlikely to…
Wyoming Voters Decide Crowded Statewide Primaries Tuesday
Wyoming’s 2026 primary election is set for August 18, featuring races for governor, U.S. House, Senate, and other statewide offices. With Wyoming’s Republican dominance, the GOP primary is particularly critical, often decided by less than a majority. The election landscape includes open seats and various Republican candidates competing, while Democratic options are limited.
What the Polls Show in Florida’s Republican Primary for Governor
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds dominates the Florida Republican gubernatorial primary polls, leading by over 40 points as of August 10. With a substantial undecided voter share ranging from 17 to 31 percent, rivals Jay Collins and Paul Renner lag significantly. Meanwhile, David Jolly appears as the presumptive Democratic nominee following Jerry Demings’ campaign suspension.
Hochul’s Lead Over Blakeman Narrows to 10 Points as Siena Releases First Likely-Voter Poll of Cycle
Governor Kathy Hochul leads Republican Bruce Blakeman by 10 points in the New York governor’s race, according to a Siena poll of likely voters. Hochul has a 49% to 39% advantage, a decrease from earlier polls. The election is set for November 3, with significant regional and party divides evident.
Primary Night: Wisconsin, Minnesota, Connecticut and South Carolina Set Fall Matchups
On August 11, 2026, primary elections in six states revealed significant ideological divides within both parties. Key results included David Crowley’s narrow victory in Wisconsin’s Democratic gubernatorial primary, U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s nomination in Minnesota, and Luke Bronin’s upset over John Larson in Connecticut. South Carolina set a runoff for the Senate seat left vacant…
Blackburn and Green Win Governor’s Race Primaries as Tennessee’s New Congressional Map Reshapes the House Delegation
Tennessee voters participated in primaries on August 6, determining the candidates for governor and U.S. House seats ahead of the November 3 general election. Republican Marsha Blackburn and Democrat Jerri Green emerged as gubernatorial nominees. The elections were influenced by a newly drawn congressional map favoring Republicans, affecting several districts’ dynamics.
California’s Governor Race Is Set: Becerra vs. Hilton Head to November
The California gubernatorial election for November 3, 2026, will feature Democrat Xavier Becerra against Republican Steve Hilton following a primary that saw Becerra securing 28% and Hilton 25% of votes. Polling indicates Becerra holds a significant lead. Key issues include affordability, the environment, and Trump’s influence on the race.
Michigan Sets Its November Ballot: A Rundown of the 2026 Primary Results
Michigan held pivotal primary elections on August 4, reshaping its political landscape as voters selected nominees for governor and U.S. Senate. Democratic Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Republican John James advanced for governor, while Abdul El-Sayed won the Democratic Senate primary. Key congressional races featured notable upsets and competitive contests. Final results await certification.
Wisconsin’s Governor’s Race Heads to a Primary With a Ballot That No Longer Matches the Field
Wisconsin’s August 11 primary will feature ballot discrepancies as candidate withdrawals occurred after certification. Of seven Democrats, three have ended campaigns and one reversed course, yet all appear on ballots. This chaotic primary follows Governor Evers’ decision not to seek a third term, making the race highly significant for both parties.
In Nevada’s Toss-Up Governor’s Race, Two Ballot Quirks Could Matter More Than Usual
Nevada’s 2026 gubernatorial race is considered a toss-up, featuring Republican incumbent Gov. Joe Lombardo and Democratic challenger Attorney General Aaron Ford. Nevada’s closed primary system excludes nonpartisan voters, while the “None of These Candidates” option allows formal rejection of candidates. These factors could significantly influence the outcome in a closely contested election.
Colorado’s Governor’s Race: A 2,500-Vote Primary, an Automatic-Recount Threshold, and a Campaign Finance Investigation
The 2026 Colorado governor’s race features a Democratic primary win by Phil Weiser and a contentious Republican primary where Victor Marx narrowly topped Barbara Kirkmeyer. Marx faces a campaign finance investigation for exceeding contribution limits, while his claims about personal history have come under scrutiny. Weiser is favored in the general election.
Tennessee’s Republican Primary for Governor Narrows Ahead of Thursday’s Vote
Tennessee Republicans will select their gubernatorial nominee on August 6, with U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, U.S. Rep. John Rose, and state Rep. Monty Fritts as major contenders. Blackburn leads in polls and fundraising, while Rose relies on personal loans. Fritts advocates limited government and has controversial proposals. The winner faces the Democratic nominee on November…
Maryland Lawmakers Convene Special Session Monday on a Constitutional Amendment That Could Reach the November Ballot
Maryland’s General Assembly begins a special session on August 3 to consider a proposed constitutional amendment affecting future congressional redistricting standards. While no new map will be drawn, the amendment aims to clarify legal frameworks governing redistricting and potentially expedite judicial review of disputes. Voter approval is sought for the ballot in 2026.
Who’s Running for Governor of Texas in 2026?
Texas voters have nominated incumbent Republican Governor Greg Abbott and Democratic state Representative Gina Hinojosa for a rematch in the November 3 election. Despite Abbott’s financial advantage and polling lead, Hinojosa has garnered support among independents and moderates, making the race unexpectedly competitive in the traditionally red state.
Minnesota Governor’s Race 2026: An Open Seat, a Late Entry, and a Split Republican Field
Minnesota’s governor’s race has become highly competitive following incumbent Tim Walz’s withdrawal amid a fraud scandal. U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar leads the Democratic primary, while the Republican race features Kendall Qualls, endorsed by the party, and MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, endorsed by Trump. The August 11 primary will be crucial.
Connecticut Governor’s Race 2026: Who’s Running, What’s at Stake, and How the Field Is Shaping Up
Connecticut voters will decide on November 3 whether Governor Ned Lamont earns a third term. First, there will be a primary on August 11 where Lamont faces State Rep. Josh Elliott after winning 75% of delegate votes. Meanwhile, Republican Ryan Fazio is unopposed for his party’s nomination. Polls indicate Lamont is favored.
Who Is Running for Governor of New York in 2026?
New York’s gubernatorial election is set for November 3, 2026, with Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul and Republican Bruce Blakeman as candidates, following uncontested primaries. Hochul’s running mate is Adrienne Adams, making history as an all-woman ticket. Polls show fluctuating leads, and minor party candidates will also appear on the ballot.
Florida’s Open Governor’s Race: Where Things Stand Three Weeks Before the Primary
Florida is gearing up for its first open governor’s race in eight years, with Republican frontrunner Byron Donalds significantly leading the primary, backed by substantial fundraising and Trump’s endorsement. The Democratic primary has solidified around David Jolly after rival Jerry Demings withdrew. The primary is set for August 18, with the general election on November…
How Governors Influence Election Administration
In the U.S., election administration is mainly handled by states, with governors playing significant roles through appointment powers, executive oversight, legal leadership, and coordination with local officials. Their influence varies across states, impacting election policies and procedures despite different constitutional frameworks and statutory arrangements governing elections.
Why Virginia Governors Can Serve Only One Term
Virginia has a unique gubernatorial term-limit, allowing governors only one four-year term without immediate re-election. This constitutional rule aims to prevent consolidation of power and promote leadership turnover, resulting in open-seat elections and shifting political control. Understanding this structure is crucial for evaluating Virginia’s distinct political landscape.
States with 2026 Gubernatorial Elections
In 2026, gubernatorial elections will be held on November 3 across 36 states, featuring candidates from major parties and independents. Many races have open seats due to term limits while incumbents compete for re-election. Key battleground states include Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, attracting significant attention.
Why State Elections Matter More Than Most Voters Realize
State elections play a critical role in Americans’ daily lives, influencing laws, education, taxation, and judicial outcomes more directly than federal elections. Governors hold significant power during crises, while state legislatures shape the judiciary. As states test policies, voter participation in state races is crucial for accountability and ensuring fair governance.
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