More than 30 governorships will be contested across the United States during the 2026 midterm elections, with several key races expected to shape the future direction of American politics on issues ranging from abortion and healthcare to education, voting rights and LGBTQ+ policy.
A new analysis published by The 19th highlights a series of closely watched gubernatorial contests unfolding in battleground states and politically divided regions across the country.
Many of the races involve open seats as term-limited governors step aside, creating opportunities for new political figures to emerge ahead of the 2028 presidential election cycle. [Read more…] about Why the 2026 governor races could reshape American politics