Election 2026 Iowa Governor
Iowa Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rob Sand speaks during an election night event Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa.
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Democrats made sweeping gains in state governments in the midterm elections, taking control of several legislatures and shifting the balance of power across battleground and historically Republican-leaning states. The party took full control of both statehouse chambers and of the governor's office in five states where they've been sharing power. They also won the majority in the Texas state House. The wins put pressure on the party to answer to an electorate angry over the price of gas, inflation, affordable housing and the rising cost of living. State governments shape a wide array of policies affecting everyday lives. That includes tax rates and abortion rights, school choice and education funding, and data center development.
