2026 Gubernatorial Races: What to Watch

The 2026 election cycle will include 36 gubernatorial races nationwide, making it one of the most consequential state election years in recent history. Of those races, 21 incumbents are seeking reelection, while 15 governorships are open seats due to term limits or retirements. Election Day will take place on November 3, 2026.

Currently, party control of governorships nationwide remains closely divided, with 26 Republican governors and 24 Democratic governors. Given the number of open seats and competitive contests, shifts in control are likely in several states.

Several races are expected to draw particular attention:

• Arizona remains a razor-thin battleground, with Governor Katie Hobbs seeking reelection in a state that continues to deliver narrow statewide margins.

• Georgia features an open seat following Governor Brian Kemp’s term limit, with both parties expected to field high-profile candidates.

• Kansas faces an open race as a term-limited Democratic governor exits in a traditionally Republican-leaning state.

• Michigan will see a competitive open-seat contest as both parties vie to succeed term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

• Nevada is expected to be a true toss-up, with closely contested statewide dynamics.

For SMACNA members, gubernatorial leadership plays a critical role in shaping state infrastructure investment, workforce development policy, procurement rules, labor standards, permitting processes, and regulatory enforcement. SMACNA will continue to track these races and provide updates as the cycle progresses.