Analysis
2026 Governors Races: All 36 States Rated
Published 2026-05-10 — USPollingData Analysis
36
Governor Races
19
D Currently Hold
17
R Currently Hold
8
Competitive Races
Most Competitive 2026 Governor Races
| State | Incumbent | Status | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | Tony Evers (D) | Open (Evers term-limited) | Toss-Up |
| Michigan | Gretchen Whitmer (D) | Open (Whitmer term-limited) | Toss-Up |
| Pennsylvania | Josh Shapiro (D) | Shapiro running for Senate? | Lean D |
| Georgia | Brian Kemp (R) | Kemp running for Senate? | Lean R |
| North Carolina | Josh Stein (D) | Stein re-election bid | Lean D |
| Nevada | Joe Lombardo (R) | Lombardo re-election bid | Toss-Up |
Why Governors Matter in 2026
Governors will play a critical role in the 2028 presidential election cycle — drawing congressional district lines after the 2030 census, setting state election administration policies, and positioning themselves as 2028 presidential contenders.
Key states where the governor affects redistricting and elections: Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina, and Georgia. Democrats holding these governorships would significantly improve their 2028 electoral outlook.