Statewide Elections Dashboard

This November, many states across the country will be holding statewide elections to decide who fills key political leadership roles.

Almost every state has the potential to see new faces around the public policy table in 2027 whether they be a state governor, a chief state school officer, or members of the state legislature. Changes in political leadership influence how a states’ public policy system operates as well as which issues become policy priorities.

The outcomes of this year’s elections have the potential to have a big impact on education systems around the country, which is one of the reasons that education is a top issue among candidates and voters.

To help state leaders understand how the outcomes of the 2026 elections can impact education, Education Commission of the States is tracking the elections closely. For information on K-12 Governance structures within states, dive into our 50-State Comparison on K-12 Governance.

Navigate to sections below:

2026 Elections Key Takeaways

This year, Education Commission of the States is tracking the results of all state elections that may have a direct impact on education policy in their state.

Thirty-eight elections for governor (36 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
- Sixteen sitting governors cannot seek re-election due to term-limits.
- Four sitting governors chose not to seek re-election.
Nine states and the U.S. Virgin Islands will hold a direct election for some members of their state board of education.
Several states and higher education systems will be holding elections for their Board of Regents.

Executive Office Elections and Transitions By State

Governors' Appointing Authority Overview

Though governors’ roles and powers range from state to state, they carry significant influence over policy priorities and state budget allocations. In some states, governors are granted the authority to appoint key leadership positions in their state education system. Across the country:

Twenty governors have the authority to appoint their chief state school officer.
Forty-one governors have the authority to appoint more than one member to the State Board of Education.
Twelve governors have the authority to appoint their state higher education executive officer.
Forty-six governors have the authority to appoint members of their postsecondary governance or coordinating board.

Elections for Chief State School Officers

There are eight states holding an election for their Chief State School Officer (CSSO).

State Boards of Education

In 2026, eight states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands will hold elections for their state boards of education. Within those jurisdictions, six have partisan boards and four have nonpartisan boards.

Legislative Elections and Education Committees

Eighty-eight state legislative chambers are holding elections for some or all of their members.

In addition to the legislative chambers in the District of Columbia, American Samoa and the U.S. Virgin Islands will hold elections.