Nevada, New Jersey Gubernatorial Races Remain Tossups Amid Party Turnout Concerns

The 2026 gubernatorial races in Nevada and New Jersey are shaping up to be highly competitive and indicative of broader national political trends. In Nevada, Republican incumbent Joe Lombardo leads Democrat Aaron Ford by a narrow margin, reflecting the state's evenly split electorate and its pivotal role after narrowly backing President Trump in 2024. Meanwhile, New Jersey's race between Democrat Mikie Sherrill and pro-Trump Republican Jack Ciattarelli is tightening, with concerns among Democrats about low minority voter turnout potentially impacting Sherrill's chances in a traditionally blue but politically purple state. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries criticized Republicans for economic policies he says harm vulnerable Americans, underscoring Democratic messaging as they target key races like New Jersey and Virginia. Jeffries expressed confidence in Democratic victories in these states, blaming GOP inaction on issues like the Affordable Care Act tax credits. These gubernatorial contests highlight the ongoing struggle for political control in battleground states amid shifting voter demographics and party dynamics.