State Elections: A Comprehensive Overview of Upcoming Races
State-level elections serve as the backbone of local governance in the United States, determining the leadership that manages everything from public safety to fiscal policy. These regularly scheduled contests ensure a democratic rotation of power across various executive and legislative branches.
Key Facts
- 11 states and two territories are holding gubernatorial elections.
- 85 state legislative chambers across 44 states are holding elections.
- Executive races include Lieutenant governors, Attorneys general, Secretaries of State, Treasurers, and Auditors.
- Judicial elections for supreme and appellate courts are scheduled for 2028.
Executive Branch Elections
The executive branch is responsible for implementing laws and managing the daily operations of the state. Several key roles are up for election across the country.
Gubernatorial Races
The governor serves as the chief executive of a state. Currently, 11 states and two territories are holding regularly scheduled gubernatorial elections. Within these races, one governor is facing term limits—a legal restriction on the number of terms an individual may serve—while another governor has announced their retirement.
Other Executive Offices
Beyond the governorship, several other critical administrative roles are being contested:
- Lieutenant Governor: Nine states and American Samoa are holding elections for this secondary executive role.
- Attorney General: Ten states will elect their chief legal officer.
- Secretary of State: Seven states are holding elections for the official responsible for records and elections.
- Treasurer: Nine states are electing the official who manages the state's finances.
- Auditor: Eight states and Guam are holding elections for the state auditor, who oversees financial accountability.
Legislative and Judicial Elections
While executive roles manage the state, the legislative branch creates the laws, and the judicial branch interprets them.
State Legislative Chambers
Legislative elections are widespread, with 85 state legislative chambers across 44 states holding regular elections. Additionally, seven chambers across various U.S. territories are also conducting legislative contests.
State Judicial Elections
The judiciary ensures that laws are applied fairly. Elections for state judicial positions, including those for supreme courts and appellate courts (courts that review decisions from lower courts), are scheduled to take place in 2028 across various states.
Election Summary Table
| Office/Branch | Scope of Elections |
|---|---|
| Governor | 11 states, 2 territories |
| Lieutenant Governor | 9 states, American Samoa |
| Attorney General | 10 states |
| Secretary of State | 7 states |
| Treasurer | 9 states |
| Auditor | 8 states, Guam |
| Legislative Chambers | 85 chambers (44 states), 7 chambers (territories) |
| Judicial (Supreme/Appellate) | Various states (Scheduled for 2028) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many states are holding gubernatorial elections?
There are 11 states and two territories holding regularly scheduled gubernatorial elections.
Are any governors leaving office for reasons other than losing an election?
Yes, one governor is term-limited and another is retiring.
How many legislative chambers are involved in the upcoming elections?
A total of 85 state legislative chambers across 44 states, as well as 7 chambers in U.S. territories, are holding elections.
When will the next state judicial elections occur?
Elections for various state supreme and appellate courts are scheduled to be held in 2028.
Which territories are holding executive elections?
American Samoa is holding Lieutenant governor elections, and Guam is holding state auditor elections.