In 2026, thirty-six gubernatorial elections will take place, providing insight into the electorate's sentiment amid President Donald Trump's second term. The Democratic Party aims to build on its successes from 2025, particularly in New Jersey and Virginia, where they focused on issues of affordability and economic stability. However, they face challenges in crowded primaries across key states, where contentious issues may arise.

Trump's influence remains significant within the Republican Party, as he actively endorses candidates in primaries and general elections. According to Mike Noble, CEO of Noble Predictive Insights, these races are likely to serve as a referendum on Trump's economic policies.

Among the notable gubernatorial races is Arizona, where Democratic Governor Katie Hobbs, who won her 2022 election by a narrow margin, faces a competitive Republican primary. The GOP candidates include Rep. Andy Biggs and Rep. David Schweikert, both of whom have received Trump's endorsement, complicating the primary dynamics.

In California, a crowded field of Democratic candidates is vying to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. Prominent figures include Rep. Eric Swalwell and former Rep. Katie Porter, both of whom emphasize countering Trump and addressing affordability in their campaigns.

Georgia's gubernatorial race features a Republican primary to replace term-limited Governor Brian Kemp, with candidates such as Attorney General Chris Carr and Lt. Gov. Burt Jones. The Democratic candidates include former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.

Iowa's race may become competitive as the GOP faces potential challenges, with State Auditor Rob Sand emerging as the Democratic front-runner.

Kansas presents an opportunity for Republicans to regain control, as Democratic Governor Laura Kelly is term-limited. A slate of Republican candidates is already in the running, while Democrats aim to position themselves as a counterbalance to the GOP's legislative supermajority.

Michigan's gubernatorial race includes competitive primaries for both parties, with a notable independent candidate, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, potentially altering the election landscape.

In Nevada, State Attorney General Aaron Ford is the Democratic favorite against Republican Governor Joe Lombardo, with economic issues, particularly related to Medicaid and tourism, likely influencing voter decisions.

Pennsylvania's Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro, viewed as a potential 2028 presidential candidate, must first secure re-election in a state that Trump flipped in 2024. His high approval ratings may aid his campaign against a more mainstream Republican challenger.

South Carolina's Republican primary is expected to be contentious, with candidates vying for Trump's endorsement. The race has already seen accusations of misconduct among candidates, highlighting the intense competition.

Wisconsin's gubernatorial race is marked by packed primaries for both parties, as Democratic Governor Tony Evers opts not to run for a third term. Candidates from both parties are focusing on affordability as a key issue in this battleground state.