Democrats Hold 23 Governors Amid GOP Washington Control

Despite Republicans controlling the White House, House, and Senate under President Donald Trump, Democrats hold 23 governorships, including in key battleground states Trump won in the 2024 election. Many Democratic governors have used their positions to advance policies such as expanding Medicaid, raising minimum wages, protecting abortion rights, and defending healthcare access for transgender patients, offering a contrast to federal Republican leadership. Some governors, like Maryland's Wes Moore and Illinois' J.B. Pritzker, have gained attention for their leadership and are viewed by party activists as potential figures for the 2026 midterms and the 2028 presidential race. Democratic leaders emphasize the importance of delivering tangible results at the state level, which could serve as a blueprint for future federal electoral success. Meanwhile, in Wisconsin, the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race marks the first open contest since 2010, as popular Democratic Governor Tony Evers opts not to run for a third term, with multiple Democrats and Republicans already preparing to run. These developments highlight the strategic role state governorships play for Democrats amid their challenges in Washington.