Voters to Decide 36 Gubernatorial Races in 2026
State executive elections across the country on November 3, 2026, feature 296 total offices on the ballot.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Elections
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Voters across the United States will head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to cast ballots in 36 gubernatorial elections. A total of 296 state executive offices across 43 states are up for grabs in this election cycle.
Why it matters
The 2026 midterm cycle features a higher volume of state executive offices on the ballot compared to the 2024 elections. Fifteen incumbent governors are term-limited this year, potentially leading to significant shifts in state leadership.
A total of 296 state executive offices will be decided in 43 states, including 31 lieutenant governor, 30 attorney general, and 26 secretary of state seats. This data, compiled by Ballotpedia, notes that 15 incumbent governors are term-limited.
The players
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The details
The upcoming election includes 36 gubernatorial contests, with Republicans currently holding 26 incumbent seats and Democrats holding 24. Arizona will hold its first election for lieutenant governor, a position created after voters approved Proposition 131 in 2022.
Timeline
Arizona voters approved Proposition 131 in 2022.
Fewer state executive offices were on the ballot in 2024.
Elections for governor and other state offices occur on November 3, 2026.
Political Context
The introduction of the lieutenant governor seat in Arizona follows the passage of Arizona Proposition 131, marking a structural change in state government. This shift contrasts with broader partisan debates regarding executive power and office mandates at the state level.
These elections will determine the officials responsible for setting state-level policy on taxes, infrastructure, and regulations for millions of residents. Voters should prepare to review local candidates, as the results will dictate leadership across 43 states.
The takeaway
Voters should research their specific state ballots well in advance to understand the candidates running for the 296 executive offices. Participation in these contests is vital because state-level officials often have a more direct impact on daily life than federal representatives.
Further reading
For more information on upcoming contests, visit the United States Elections page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Center Square.
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