U.S. Governors
9 states elect governors this cycle. 1 toss-ups, 1 competitive overall.
Toss-up through Likely
Term-limited or retiring
NH & VT elect every 2 years
Why 9 and not 50? Governors serve 4-year terms on staggered schedules — roughly half the states vote for governor in midterm years. New Hampshire and Vermont are exceptions: they elect governors every 2 years. Open seats (where the incumbent is term-limited or retiring) are where the biggest shifts happen.
Explore governor races by state
Select your state on the map to see governor candidates and other races on your ballot.
Why Governor Races Matter
Governors have enormous power over daily life — they sign or veto state laws, set budgets for schools and roads, appoint judges, and lead emergency responses. In many states, the governor can also influence redistricting, which shapes congressional districts for a decade.
Open Seats Are the Battleground
0 of these 9 races are open seats where the incumbent isn't running — either due to term limits or retirement. Without the incumbency advantage (sitting governors win re-election ~75% of the time), these races are far more competitive.
The Bigger Picture
Governors also play a role in federal politics. They can appoint U.S. Senators to fill vacancies, influence state election laws, and shape their party's bench of future presidential candidates.
Governors 101
A governor is the head of state government — the state-level equivalent of the president. Each of the 50 states has one governor, elected by the people of that state.
Key Facts
What Does a Governor Do?
- Signs or vetoes bills passed by the state legislature
- Proposes the state budget (education, infrastructure, healthcare)
- Appoints state judges and agency heads
- Commands the state's National Guard
- Declares state emergencies (natural disasters, public health crises)
- Can appoint a U.S. Senator to fill a vacancy (in most states)
Term Limits
Most states limit governors to two consecutive 4-year terms. A few (like Virginia) allow only one consecutive term, while others (like Texas) have no term limits at all. New Hampshire and Vermont are unique — their governors serve 2-year terms.
Why Midterm Governor Races Matter
About half of all governor races happen during midterm elections (the years between presidential elections). Historically, the president's party tends to lose seats in midterms, which can create opportunities for the opposing party to win governor's mansions — and with them, control over state policy.