January 5, 2017
2017-2018 Governors' Races: Where Power Is Most and Least Likely to Flip
With elections in dozens of states, the leading parties have reason to worry in almost half of them.
November 11, 2016
Election Predictions: How Wrong (or Right) Were We?
We rated races for president, governor, state legislature and attorney general.
November 9, 2016
States' Supreme Court Election Results a Mixed Bag
Judicial elections weren't a clear sweep for either party.
November 9, 2016
GOP Picks Up Significant Control in State School Offices
It was a lesser-noticed but important downballot trend from election night.
November 9, 2016
Republican Sweep Extends to Secretaries of State
The GOP picked up four seats.
November 9, 2016
Lieutenant Governor Races Offer Bright Spot for Democrats
Democrats managed to flip the Vermont LG seat blue -- even as the state governorship flipped red.
November 9, 2016
GOP Gains Ground (Narrowly) in State AG Races
Most races for states' attorneys general maintained the status quo, but one seat switched to Republican control.
November 9, 2016
Republicans Make Gains in Governors' Races
With one election likely headed for a recount, Democrats have lost power in three states, including traditionally blue Vermont.
November 7, 2016
Ratings Roundup: 2016 Statewide Elections
Our final pre-election predictions for the Electoral College, gubernatorial, attorney general and legislative races.
November 3, 2016
Judicial Races On Track to Break Spending Records
The 2015-2016 state supreme court election cycle has attracted big money from outside groups.
November 2, 2016
A Final Recap of This Year's Races for Lieutenant Governor
Unlike the gubernatorial races, Republicans are the ones playing defense.
October 27, 2016
Half of 2016 Races for Governor Too Close to Call
Democrats are looking to narrow the GOP’s historically large hold on gubernatorial seats. Here's our state-by-state analysis of each election.
October 20, 2016
Clinton Takes a Commanding Lead
In less than a month, our Electoral College handicapping went from indicating a narrowing presidential contest to one that is widening.
October 12, 2016
November Likely to Lessen GOP's Advantage in Legislatures
According to our state-by-state projections, Democrats have their best chance since 2010 to take back control of some chambers.
October 5, 2016
State-by-State Predictions for the 2016 Presidential Race
Our latest handicapping shows four states will likely determine which candidate wins.
September 28, 2016
Predictions for November's Attorney General Races
Four contests are competitive, giving Republicans a chance to flip three seats.
September 21, 2016
50 Battleground Counties to Watch in 2016 Presidential Race
These are the districts in each competitive state that could decide November's presidential election.
September 12, 2016
How Free Trade Became a Political Liability
It's hard to find candidates of any party this year openly supporting free trade -- even if they've touted its benefits in the past.
August 22, 2016
The Best of Times, the Worst of Times: A Ranking of State Economies
Few of the best- and worst-performing states were in the same position just three years ago.
August 18, 2016
Handicapping the 2016 Presidential Race: August Edition
The latest state-by-state predictions show Hillary Clinton well-positioned to win in November.
August 11, 2016
A Conversation With Jay Nixon on Ferguson, Trump and His Future
Missouri's soon-to-be former governor talks about his accomplishments and disappointments, party politics and what's next.
July 20, 2016
How John Kasich Made History in 2016
He escaped the curse of sitting governors who lose a presidential bid. Will he ride his statewide success into a national campaign again in 2020?
July 14, 2016
The Rise and Simultaneous Fall of Straight-Ticket Voting
Where it exists, it remains popular. But five states have axed it since 2011, and there's a federal push to abolish the option to vote for one party across the ballot.
July 7, 2016
Handicapping the 2016 Governors Races
In a year of political upheaval, the gubernatorial elections stand out for how little has changed.
June 21, 2016
The States Where Voting Laws May Affect Election Results
In some close races, early voting cutbacks and photo ID requirements could impact the outcome.
June 13, 2016
School Funding, Common Core and 2016 Superintendent Races
Funding has replaced Common Core as the major education issue in most state contests.
May 19, 2016
Handicapping the 2016 State Legislative Races
Near rock bottom in state chambers, Democrats are hoping to capitalize on a presidential year.
May 13, 2016
A History of Insurgent Candidates' Impact on Down-Ballot Races
Top-of-the-ticket insurgents like Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders often show little interest in helping other like-minded candidates win lower offices.
April 27, 2016
Democratic Secretaries of State Most At Risk in 2016 Races
Republicans currently dominate the office that holds significant power over elections.
April 18, 2016
Scandals Involving Governors Continue to Ebb
The large gubernatorial class of 2010 has until recently been scandal-free.
March 28, 2016
New Head of Governors Group Talks Future of States
In an interview, Scott Pattison of the National Governors Association says he wants to guide the group through a period of fierce partisanship.
March 23, 2016
Against Trump, Clinton Could Win Easier Than Obama Did
Our latest Electoral College handicapping shows nearly a dozen states are increasingly leaning toward picking a Democrat to be the next president.
March 14, 2016
4 States Have Competitive Attorney General Races in 2016
Republicans play offense in three states, while Democrats have a shot at flipping one seat.
February 26, 2016
Where Have All the Democratic Agriculture Commissioners Gone?
At one time, the statewide office was mostly held by conservative Democrats. Now Republicans dominate.
February 1, 2016
Will Online Polls Revolutionize Elections?
Most political polls are still conducted over the phone, but they're becoming more problematic and less accurate. That's why online polls have emerged.
January 25, 2016
Rating the 2016 Governors’ Races
Eight of the 12 states with elections this year could soon have a new party in power.
January 4, 2016
Rocky Roads Ahead for Governors With Failed Presidential Bids
Trying and failing to take the White House has historically spelled trouble for governors' future political careers. In 2016, however, there may be one exception.
December 29, 2015
Q&A With Jack Markell, a Leader Among America's Governors
The Delaware governor, who has led the Democratic and National governors associations, talks about workforce development, the state of governors, the future of his party and more.
December 9, 2015
Will Swing States Increase in the 2016 Presidential Election?
At least seven states could vote either way in next year's presidential election, but that number may be even higher. If it is, Democrats should worry.
November 10, 2015
Do Governors' Endorsements Matter in Presidential Races?
Over the past 30 years, there have only been a handful of elections where a governor made a difference in a caucus or primary outcome.
November 4, 2015
Who Won? Who Lost? 2015 Statewide Race Results
Republicans took the night’s biggest prize, but Democrats also notched some victories.
October 23, 2015
Election 2015: Rundown of the State Races
From governors to treasurers, several states are voting on their leadership starting this weekend.
October 21, 2015
Democrats on Defense in 2015-2016 Attorneys General Races
Already in the minority, Democratic attorneys general face upcoming elections in a tough mix of states. We break down the likely outcome of each.
October 8, 2015
Most Rookie Governors Are Off to a Good Start
Almost a year into their new job, most have been largely successful. But some are struggling to lead.
September 30, 2015
Obscure, Yet Powerful, Jobs in State and Local Government
The most powerful political offices can sometimes come from surprising and seemingly insignificant places.
September 4, 2015
6 Governors Who Choose Pragmatism Over Ideology
In this era of partisan politics, some are bold enough to take a bipartisan path.
August 20, 2015
Why Don’t More State Auditors Run for Higher Office?
The job prepares politicians for the next level. But not many use it as a stepping stone.
August 6, 2015
2015-2016 Governors Races Give Democrats (a Little) Hope
A state-by-state breakdown of the 14 upcoming elections shows where Democrats can take a few seats from Republicans.
July 16, 2015
Why Democratic Governors and Republican Mayors Have Become Rare
From the presidency down, each party is more likely to win elections at certain levels of government. Whether that’s good or bad depends on your political views.
May 12, 2015
The GOP’s Hispanic Paradox
Republicans' anti-immigration rhetoric is turning off Hispanic voters, yet they're better than Democrats at finding Hispanic candidates to climb the political ladder.
April 21, 2015
The Waning Power of Political Dynasties
Based on 2014 elections, dynastic branding doesn't mean as much as it used too.
April 6, 2015
Working Around Polarization
National organizations that represent states and localities are finding ways to keep partisanship out of their ranks.
March 25, 2015
Wyoming, the Red State That Likes Common Core
While many Republican states have made efforts to repeal the education standards, Wyoming appears happy to move forward. How has Common Core thrived in such a solidly GOP state?
March 1, 2015
Bright Spots in the Sad State of Statehouse Reporting
The number of statehouse reporters has drastically declined, but journalists see reasons for optimism.
January 23, 2015
Democrats Have More Seats to Defend in 2015-2016 Governors Races
Despite holding far fewer seats overall, the Democrats have more governorships to defend than the Republicans.
January 16, 2015
The 8 States to Watch in 2016
In addition to being presidential battlegrounds, these states will host several other pivotal contests.
January 5, 2015
10 Things I've Learned from Covering State Politics
After more than a decade writing about the states, Louis Jacobson reflects on what he has discovered.
December 17, 2014
How Down-Ballot Democrats Can Win Back Seats
If history proves correct, then losing the presidency would help Democrats regain Congressional, gubernatorial and state legislative seats.
November 7, 2014
The 2014 Election Handicapping: How We Did
Governing rated three types of contests during the 2014 campaign cycle: gubernatorial races, state attorney general races, and control of the state legislatures.
November 5, 2014
What Happened in the 2014 State Judicial Races?
The results in several contested races could provide a small amount of solace to Democrats.
November 5, 2014
What the 2014 Elections Mean for State Legislatures
The Republicans will end up increasing the number of state chambers they control by nine.
November 5, 2014
Republicans Win Narrowly in State AG Contests
The party was able to flip open seats in Arkansas and Nevada and now leads Democrats in attorney general offices nationally.
November 5, 2014
Democrats Lose Several Downballot State Races
Republicans racked up victories in contests for lieutenant governor, secretary of state and school superintendent.
November 5, 2014
GOP Governors Take Democratic Strongholds
Republicans not only defended their most vulnerable governors, they flipped several blue states.
November 3, 2014
The Can't Miss 2014 Downballot State Races
Though overshadowed by the gubernatorial and state legislative races, the contests for lieutenant governor, secretary of state and state school superintendent can be high-stakes battles.
November 1, 2014
In 2014 Governors Races, Where’s the Tea Party?
Tea Party candidates infiltrated the U.S. Senate primaries this year, but the group failed to form any real challenges to Republican governors.
October 30, 2014
Ratings Roundup: 2014 Statewide Elections
Our final pre-election handicapping of the gubernatorial, attorney general and legislative contests.
October 22, 2014
Only a Few 2014 Legislative Races Are Competitive
The battle for control of state legislatures has gotten a little more competitive in recent months, with Democrats still playing defense.
October 21, 2014
2014 Governors Races: The Year of the Tossup
Unlike four years ago, incumbent governors are most vulnerable this election cycle. We've rated every race.
October 20, 2014
The Overlooked November Elections: Judicial Races
Recognizing the vast influence that judges can have on state policy, their races have received a lot of money this election year.
October 9, 2014
Red or Blue, Politics Doesn't Predict Where Women Win
Why aren't there more female governors? A look at historical data sheds some light on women's campaigns for the top office.
October 2, 2014
The Race for Attorney General Tightens Up in 9 States
With one month to go, the Democrats and Republicans are in a dead heat to win the most seats.
October 1, 2014
Bye, Bye GOP Mayors?
Republican mayors are rare in America’s big cities today. The few surviving ones have tips for getting into and staying in office.
September 10, 2014
2014 Governors Races: Where Republicans Are Likely to Win
The GOP has more seats in jeopardy since the party's big gains in 2010.
September 10, 2014
2014 Governors Races: The Tossups
The number of gubernatorial elections that are too close to call has nearly doubled over the past few months.
September 10, 2014
2014 Governors Races: Where Democrats Have an Edge
The Democratic Party is likely to gain a few seats after the GOP's big gains in 2010.
September 1, 2014
5 Popular Ballot Themes This Election Year
While the final lineup of measures is still being sorted out, five broad themes are emerging.
August 1, 2014
2014 Elections Where Third-Party Candidates Could Make a Big Difference
In at least five gubernatorial races this fall, the outcome may depend on how well a third-party candidate fares.
July 21, 2014
A Rundown of the 2014 Lieutenant Governor Races
All eyes may be on the gubernatorial seats up for election this fall, but there are a handful of competitive LG contests in the works.
July 3, 2014
How to Avoid Embarrassment and Win Statewide Office
Three candidates running for governor show it's possible to rebound from earlier disastrous campaigns.
July 1, 2014
Can Governors Balance National Ambitions with Concerns Back Home?
Governors like Mitt Romney have typically lost popularity at home when they made a run for the presidency. Will the current governors being talked about as potential 2016 candidates suffer the same fate?
June 23, 2014
Democrats Playing Defense in 2014 State Legislative Races
Democrats hold fewer chambers but have more at risk this year than Republicans. Here's a breakdown of what to expect in every state legislature's elections.
June 1, 2014
A Guide to the 36 Governors’ Races
Which incumbent governors face a tough road ahead and which are expected to win re-election easily?
May 27, 2014
Winners and Losers of the 2014 State Legislators to Watch
A surprising number of this year's rising stars are seeking higher office.
May 1, 2014
Can the GOP Take Advantage of Obamacare Website Woes?
Several state-run insurance exchanges have verged on disastrous, but the states may be too blue to give Republican gubernatorial candidates much of a boost.
April 29, 2014
Whatever Happened to Crossover Voting?
With increasing partisan polarization, there's little reason for a Democratic or Republican governor to head to the middle, putting governors with bipartisan appeal at risk of becoming extinct.
April 23, 2014
Can This Year's U.S. Senate Races Impact the Gubernatorial Contests?
Senate races can have coattails for gubernatorial contests, but the impact is far from guaranteed.
March 27, 2014
Secretary of State Seats Get Competitive
With voter ID laws a bone of contention, more attention and money is flowing to state secretary of state contests.
March 25, 2014
The Long-Term Impact of Voting Law Changes
They may not have a big impact on elections this November, but that could change down the road.
March 20, 2014
Will Voter ID Changes Affect the 2014 Elections?
The cumulative impact of voting-rule changes on the outcome of several key state races in November looks to be hit or miss.
March 11, 2014
The 2014 Governors Races: Are the Democrats Fighting Back?
Republicans hold the lead in governorships, but Democrats may be making slight gains in this year's gubernatorial races.
March 6, 2014
2014 Governors Races: A Look at the Too-Close-to-Call Contests
We examine the tossup gubernatorial races in the six states where votes will likely matter the most.
March 4, 2014
2014 Governors Races: Are the Republicans Losing Ground?
As Texans head to the polls in the year's first primary today, we look at how the Republicans are faring in this year’s gubernatorial races.
February 11, 2014
Washington is about as popular as snow in July in most of these cities.
Clarence Anthony, executive director of the National League of Cities, who says mayors have more influence with the public than the federal government.
February 10, 2014
What Do Governors Get Out of Leading the DGA, NGA and RGA?
Increasingly, these associations are being used as proving grounds for governors that want to run for a national office.
January 21, 2014
How Elections Will Affect State School Superintendent Seats in 2014
A look at several states where elections could change K-12 education policy.
January 16, 2014
State School Superintendents and the Messy Business of Politics
How elections in 2014 could shape education policy in the states.
January 1, 2014
12 State Legislators to Watch in 2014
It’s a tough time to be a politician, but these state lawmakers are really making a mark.
January 1, 2014
2012 Legislators to Watch: Where Are They Now?
Since we last published a list of 12 state legislators to watch in January 2012, we’ve seen one legislator rocket to national stardom, two abruptly, and voluntarily, leave politics altogether and the rest continue to soldier on in the political trenches.
December 19, 2013
What's Ahead for the Attorney General Races in 2014?
Here's the rankings for AG offices up for re-election in November.
December 1, 2013
This Is the Future of Radio.
The FCC wants to modernize AM radio, which has lost listeners in recent years. Can it work?
November 6, 2013
2013 Election: State and Local Race Results
An overview of what happened on Election Day 2013 in statewide, legislative and mayoral races.
November 4, 2013
Can Adopting Ranked-Choice Voting Make Politics Civil?
Some think a new voting process could heal many of the nation's political system's ills.
October 23, 2013
2013 State and Local Election Preview
A breakdown of some of the most important races and ballot initiatives to watch.
October 3, 2013
What We Can Learn from New Hampshire Politics
The Granite State has a unique governmental structure that ultimately gives residents more power than state representatives.
September 11, 2013
Connecticut's Economy Hurting Governor Malloy
Despite the governor's best efforts, the economy is struggling and so are his approval ratings.
September 9, 2013
A Good Economy Doesn't Always Mean a Popular Governor
It's generally true that if things are good in state, than things are good for the governor. There are some exceptions, though.
August 21, 2013
A Tale of Two Redistrictings
California and Pennsylvania offer a clear picture of the state of redistricting in the U.S.
August 19, 2013
The Future of the GOP & Hispanic Voters Looks Grim
National Republicans aren't faring well among Hispanic voters. Are state GOP candidates doing any better?
July 16, 2013
Handicapping the 2013-2014 Governors Races: The Democrats
Governing looks at the seats that are currently leaning Democratic.
July 11, 2013
Handicapping the 2013-2014 Governors Races: The Republican Edition
Now that Gov. Rick Perry isn't running for re-election, will Texas stay Republican? Which of the 38 gubernatorial contests are tilting Republican?
June 14, 2013
Does Party Switching Help or Hurt a Politician's Career?
After Rhode Island Gov. Lincoln Chafee joined the Democratic Party in May -- his second switch in six years -- we looked back at how other politicians have fared since a switch.
May 16, 2013
How Weak is the Republican Party in the Most Democratic States?
Just about as weak as Democrats are in the reddest states.
May 6, 2013
Looking Back at Howard Dean's 50-State Strategy
Despite opposition from national Democrats, the former Vermont governor's bid to build up party infrastructure in every state was a success in the unlikeliest of places -- at least while it lasted.
April 24, 2013
Are States Deepening the Nation's Red-Blue Divide?
Some Democratic and Republican states are pushing more ideological policies, but not all.
April 12, 2013
How Successful Are Lieutenant Governors Seeking the Governorship?
Not as successful at moving into the governor's seat as one might think, according to an analysis of data from the past quarter century.
March 25, 2013
The 2013-2014 Attorneys General Races: Who's Vulnerable?
Last week, we revealed who wasn't in danger. Now find out which 10 AG seats are competitive.
March 21, 2013
The 2013-2014 Attorneys General Races: Who's Not Vulnerable?
More than 30 attorneys general seats are up for election in 2013-2014. But a whooping 21 are not competitive.
March 4, 2013
Where Have All the Governors Gone?
Why don't more governors seek federal office?
February 22, 2013
Are We Ready for Another Gubernatorial Scandal?
It's been three years since a governor has been mired in scandal. Here are a few possible reasons for the political calm.
February 6, 2013
State Republican Officials to Watch in 2013
Using a specific set of criteria, we've come up with a list of up-and-coming state officials from multiple fields. This week, we look at the Republican field.
January 31, 2013
The Ramifications of Changing the Electoral College
Some states are considering a change in how they allocate their electoral votes, but the change may not be good for governance.
January 25, 2013
State Democratic Officials to Watch in 2013
Using a specific set of criteria, we've come up with a list of up-and-coming state officials from multiple fields. This week, we look at the Democratic field.
January 7, 2013
The Year of Single Party Control and Supermajorities
The trend suggests fiercely partisan legislatures, but the reality may be more nuanced.
December 13, 2012
2013-2014 Governor's Races: Who's Not Vulnerable?
These 22 governors appear to be in good shape to be reelected in 2014. How did they manage it?
December 12, 2012
2013-2014 Governor's Races: Who's Potentially Vulnerable?
In this installment, Louis Jacobson looks at the 10 governors on the hot seat. Plus, why the GOP has the early edge in the balance of power.
December 11, 2012
2013-2014 Governor's Races: Who's Vulnerable?
The 2012 election may have just ended, but the contests for governorships are heating up. At least five governors have reason to worry.
December 3, 2012
Surprising Results from the 2012 Election
The outcome of some ballot initiatives suggests what makes an issue campaign successful (or unsuccessful) even in the unlikeliest of places.
November 8, 2012
Post-2012 Election Ratings Recap
We told you what we thought would happen, so let's see how we did.
November 7, 2012
Late Calls in Gubernatorial Races Going Democrats' Way
Less than half the votes have been counted, but both Democratic candidates in Montana and Washington state are leading.
November 7, 2012
Democratic State Legislatures Ride Obama's Coattails
Both parties have chalked up wins at the state legislative level, but the Democrats could have a modest advantage.
November 7, 2012
A Rough Night for Incumbent State Attorneys General
In most of the contests, the party in power is on its way out -- though that doesn't mean the national balance of power is flipping.
November 7, 2012
For Conservatives, Split Decision on State Judicial Races
Conservatives fail to oust incumbents in Florida and Iowa, but the GOP is strong in Michigan and North Carolina.
November 7, 2012
A Results Roundup of the 2012 Ballot Measures
See how measures on same-sex marriage, marijuana, immigration, abortion and so much more did on Election Night. For full coverage and analysis, visit Governing's Election Center.
November 7, 2012
A GOP Bright Spot in the 2012 Governors' Races
With two contests yet to be called, Republicans can celebrate a one-seat gain in North Carolina.
November 1, 2012
Pre-Election Ratings-Palooza
We've rounded up all our ratings and rankings for the Electoral College, governors' races, control of the state legislatures and state attorney general contests.
October 29, 2012
The Final Handicapping of the 2012 Governors’ Races
With Election Day looming, a few races go down to the wire. For full election coverage and analysis, go to Governing's Election Center.
October 24, 2012
The Latest Chamber-by-Chamber Analysis of the 2012 State Legislative Elections
Will the 2012 elections lead to big power changes in the state legislatures?
October 16, 2012
Judicial Races in 4 States Draw Big Money, Partisanship
Often, judicial races are sleepy. But sometimes they’re hard-fought, high-stakes, big-money affairs. And that’s the case this year in at least four states.
October 12, 2012
Attorney General Races: Democrats' Odds Improving
If current trends hold, the Democrats could net one AG seat this year, which would be a small improvement from the 2010 elections.
October 3, 2012
Same-Sex Marriage, Marijuana Head 2012 Ballot List
Here's a rundown of the key ballot initiatives in the 37 states holding elections this November.
September 25, 2012
The Latest 2012 Presidential Electoral Vote Breakdown
Could the recent upswing in Obama's poll numbers get him the 270 votes he needs to win re-election?
September 21, 2012
Secretaries of State Still Juggling Politics, Elections
With 10 offices up for election or reappointment, Governing handicaps the races this fall.
September 13, 2012
A Conversation with Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley
Governing caught up with the chairman of the Democratic Governors Association at last week's convention in Charlotte, N.C.
September 12, 2012
DLCC Officials Optimistic on State Legislative Races
Governing sat down with two of the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee's leaders at the DNC last week.
August 22, 2012
Election 2012: State Legislature Predictions
If our ratings prove correct, Democrats will be far behind the GOP in overall control of chambers on Election Night.
August 2, 2012
Are Governors Who Run for Higher Office on Thin Ice?
The national spotlight has been known to burn some politicians back home.
July 24, 2012
An Update to 2012 Governors' Races
With less than four months to go, the 2012 gubernatorial contests are looking good for the GOP.
July 12, 2012
Massachusetts Tackles Health-Care Reform (Again)
While health care remains a contentious issue in most state legislatures, the Democratic-controlled Bay State is hard at work on its next phase of reform.
June 19, 2012
Power Struggle: Governors and the Legislatures
How governors have learned to work with Legislatures controlled by the other party.
June 19, 2012
The Two Sides of Chris Christie
The brash New Jersey governor has found success working with a Democratic Legislature, but will his national role as a Republican superstar get in the way of his agenda?
June 8, 2012
The Gubernatorial Hurdle: Why Mayors Struggle to Win Statewide
Be it resentment toward the big city or the liberal-leaning urban electorate, mayors can't always connect with voters statewide. Just ask Tom Barrett.
May 25, 2012
State Legislatures May Experience a Mass Exodus
Term limits and redistricting could result in high turnover in 2013.
May 11, 2012
Could Voters Split Their Tickets for President, Governor on Election Day?
If the current outlook holds, voters in 11 states could end up pulling the lever for a Democrat and a Republican.
April 16, 2012
The April Presidential Electoral Vote Breakdown
With the nomination of Mitt Romney now all but a formality, it's time for a new handicapping of the Electoral College.
April 16, 2012
2012 Electoral College Predictions From Around the Web
A number of political observers, including Governing's Louis Jacobson, have updated their electoral college breakdown predictions. Here is a list of recent breakdowns.
April 13, 2012
Governors in the White House: How Well Do They Do as President?
Quite a few governors end up as president. So what skills and experience could a state executive bring to the White House?
March 28, 2012
Attorney General Races: Dems Still Playing Defense
With oral arguments over challenges to the Affordable Care Act occupying the Supreme Court's attention this week, its time to look again at this year's contests for state attorneys general.
March 23, 2012
How Do Business Execs Do as Candidates and as Governors?
Being a businessperson offers strengths and drawbacks for political life.
February 23, 2012
Rookie Governors: Who's Struggling?
In this final installment, Louis Jacobson looks at seven governors who are struggling while in office.
February 18, 2012
Rookie Governors: Whose Record is Mixed?
In the third of four installments, Louis Jacobson takes on the governors from the Class of 2010 whose challenges may overshadow their victories.
February 15, 2012
Rookie Governors: Who's Doing Well?
In this second of four installments, Louis Jacobson looks at the governors from the Class of 2010 that are doing "well" so far. They aren't in the top tier, but they're ahead of most of their peers.
February 10, 2012
Rookie Governors: Who's Doing Very Well?
It's been a year since the governors of the class of 2010 began their tenures. In their first year of office, three Republicans and three Democrats are doing very well.
January 18, 2012
Previewing the 2012 Governors' Races
Just two months after the 2011 gubernatorial contests, things are starting to shape up for 2012's candidates.
January 5, 2012
What It Takes for a Governor to Lose Reelection
Incumbent governors rarely lose reelection. But there are a few factors that could put a state executive at risk.
December 29, 2011
12 State Legislators to Watch in 2012
The 50 state legislatures have a lot of talent, but these 12 individuals are ones to watch.
December 8, 2011
2012 Electoral Map Breakdown: If Gingrich Is the Republican Nominee
A year later, Lou Jacobson takes another look at how the 2012 Electoral College votes would divide up depending on if Mitt Romney is not the GOP nominee for president.
December 6, 2011
If Romney Is the One: 2012 Electoral Map Breakdown
A year later, Lou Jacobson takes another look at how the 2012 Electoral College votes would divide up if Mitt Romney is the GOP nominee for president.
November 30, 2011
The Halls are Humming Again in Albany
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo has been credited with healing the once-dysfunctional Legislature.
November 9, 2011
What Does No on Ohio's Issue 2 Mean for Future Elections?
Experts are divided on what affect the outcome will have on the 2012 elections.
October 27, 2011
U.S. House Often a Poor Launching Pad for Governor
A number of former U.S. representatives have gone on to have stormy gubernatorial tenures -- often because they lack management and state political experience.
October 5, 2011
Why Did Tomblin Prevail in Special Election Despite GOP Efforts?
Earl Ray Tomblin narrowly defeated his Republican rival in last night's gubernatorial special election. What factors are contributing to the state's Republican resistance?
September 28, 2011
Electoral Regulations at Stake in 13 Sec. of State Races
Keep an eye on upcoming secretary of state races to gauge the future of voter ID and same-day registration laws -- and find political up and comers.
September 21, 2011
Democrats Remain on Defensive for AG Spots in 2011-2012
The outlook for upcoming state attorney general races has changed only slightly. Out of six competitive races, Democrats will have to protect four seats versus the Republicans' two.
September 14, 2011
Redistricting’s Impact on State Legislatures in 2012
Closely divided chambers, new redistricting processes and court battles could make 2012’s new maps more important in some states than others.
August 30, 2011
A Democratic Governor Gets His Way
In just a few months, Connecticut Gov. Dan Malloy is implementing measures that many state legislators would have balked at.
August 25, 2011
How Losing Leads to Winning
Losing an election can teach candidates valuable campaign lessons that could help them win statewide office later on.
July 28, 2011
Rhode Island's Voter ID Law: Oddity or Game Changer?
A very blue state approves a law similar to some the national Democratic Party is criticizing.
July 25, 2011
An Update on the 2011-2012 Gubernatorial Contests
Just seven months after a painful 2010 midterm election, things are looking a little better for Democrats
July 19, 2011
Reader-Recommended State Legislators to Watch
Readers recommended their own up-and-coming state legislators in this third legislators-to-watch list.
June 9, 2011
How Tied Chambers Affect States
Do tied chambers complicate or facilitate getting legislative business done?
June 1, 2011
Democratic Legislators to Watch
By consulting with a network of national and state sources, we've come up with a list of up-and-coming state legislators. Here's a look at the Democratic field.
May 24, 2011
GOP Legislators to Watch
By consulting with a network of national and state sources, we've come up with a list of up-and-coming state legislators. This week, we look at the GOP field.
April 19, 2011
One Party Dominates the Top Five Offices in 29 States
Such partisan domination can cause concern for the future of the minority party.
April 12, 2011
Insurance Commissioners Prepare for Health Care Policy Conflicts
This low-profile office will receive more attention as state officeholders decide on how to progress on the Affordable Care Act.
March 24, 2011
How 2010 Is, and Isn’t, Like 1994
While Republicans cruised to victory in both 1994 and 2010, the class of freshman governors elected in 2010 has proven to be strikingly different, at least for now.
March 9, 2011
Shrinking the Size of State Legislatures
Advocates of smaller government might have an opportunity to reduce the number of seats in state legislatures, but such proposals face a challenging path to enactment.
February 17, 2011
For Want of a Bayh in Indiana
Former Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh’s retirement kicked off a number of GOP pickups and a longing for a new Democratic figurehead.
February 9, 2011
State Political Parties Stand the Risk of Losing Major Party Status in Future Elections
Colorado's Republican Party Chairman Dick Wadhams decided to not run for a third term, crystallizing cleavages in state GOPs that could risk their majority party status.
February 1, 2011
The Congressional Map Glows Red
A review of the 2010 census findings and its implications.
January 12, 2011
The January Presidential Electoral Vote Breakdown
In the contest to win the 2012 presidential election, each party will have to win the hearts of 10 states.
January 6, 2011
2011-2012: State Attorneys General Outlook
A majority of the 13 contests to be held over the next two years look competitive.
January 1, 2011
An Early Look at the Governors
A sneak peek at the 2011 and 2012 gubernatorial campaign landscape.
December 21, 2010
Census Results Influence Congressional Map
In the once-every-decade process or reapportioning Congressional seats, the Sunbelt will once again be gaining at the expense of the Northeast and Midwest.
December 2, 2010
Looking Ahead: The 2011-2012 Gubernatorial Landscape
With just under a year to go, nine seats -- all held by Democratic governors -- could go to Republicans.
November 9, 2010
Republicans Flip the 'Electoral Backstop'
If a presidential election results in a tie in the electoral college, the election is then thrown into a GOP-controlled House.
November 5, 2010
Too-Close-to-Call Governorships Trending Democratic
A cycle of tremendous upheaval for the nation's governorships is nearing its end, as the remaining too-close-to-call states appear to be going the Democrats' way.
November 3, 2010
2010 State Legislatures: GOP Chalks Up Historic Gains
The GOP is near a high-water mark for legislative seats that dates back to 1928.
November 3, 2010
2010 Post-Election Chat Transcript
PolitiFact's Louis Jacobson answered your questions regarding state election results in this post-election live chat.
November 3, 2010
Dems Nibbling Away at GOP Gubernatorial Gains?
Democrats could flip five governorships, helping to potentially hold GOP gains to five or six seats. Plus: concessions in three states and a few races still too close to call.
November 3, 2010
Dems Hold Bare Majority of AG Races
The Democrats lost control of the U.S. House, the governorships and a slew of legislative chambers, but they should be able to hold on to a bare majority of AG offices.
November 3, 2010
Strong Night for GOP Governorships, 7 Races Too Close to Call
As expected, the Republicans had a strong night in the battle for the nation's governorships. Seven close races could decide the final net gain for the GOP.
November 3, 2010
Gubernatorial Tossups Proving To Be Very Close
Several gubernatorial races – most of them tossups going into Election Day -- are proving to be extraordinarily close.
November 2, 2010
Few Surprises in Gubernatorial Races So Far
The nation’s gubernatorial races have mostly kept to script tonight. But there may be a few surprises in Connecticut, Vermont and more.
November 1, 2010
Updated: 2010 State Attorneys General: GOP Moves A Notch Closer
With this analysis, most of the races stay as is, but two contests shift a notch toward the Republican candidate and one moves from lean Republican to tossup.
November 1, 2010
Update: 2010 State Legislatures: A Challenging Environment for Democrats
How will November 2 change your state's legislature? PolitiFact's Louis Jacobson is assessing and rating the political climates surrounding the 50 statehouses in this interactive feature.
November 1, 2010
2010 State Legislatures: An Unprecedented GOP Lean
While local factors have played a role in certain cases, the major reason for the continuing shift to the Republicans has been the national GOP wave. Be sure to check www.governing.com/politics for live election coverage.
November 1, 2010
Updated: 2010 State Elections: A Republican Gubernatorial Majority?
PolitiFact's Louis Jacobson ranks the governor's races, and predicts a strong election night could leave the GOP with better than two-thirds of the governor's seats.
October 29, 2010
Updated: Attorneys General Race Ratings
As the office grows in stature, so do the races to claim the post. Find out who your next attorney general may be. PolitiFact's Louis Jacobson provides an update to the political climates surrounding the 30 AG races in this interactive feature.
October 22, 2010
Forecasting the Redistricting Fight
Using a quantitative model, a professor predicts which party will have a greater influence on state legislative redistricting than ever before.
October 18, 2010
2010 State Elections: Ranking the Governors
If the Republican wave is realized this Election Day then the gubernatorial picture will be grim indeed for the Democrats.
October 14, 2010
Democrats Struggle to Generate Hispanic Participation
A lower Latino vote would signal trouble for the Democratic Party in November. So far, there are few signs of the confidence and hope that prevailed at the polls in the high-turnout year of 2008.
October 12, 2010
2010 State AG Elections: GOP Shift Continues
Since our last rating in August, four more state attorney general contests are favoring Republicans.
October 1, 2010
Democrats May Lose Control in 2010 State Elections
Democrats are poised to lose a slew of state legislative chambers and attorney general offices.
September 29, 2010
2010 State Legislatures: Forecast Worsens for Democrats
The Democratic peril is especially high this year because it's a midterm election, and some of the biggest landslides for the legislatures have come during midterm elections.
August 30, 2010
2010 Election: State Attorneys General Battle for Control
A potent force in local and national politics, no less than 30 state attorney general offices are being contested this fall.
July 7, 2010
2010 State Legislatures: Democrats Buckle Up for Wild Ride
The nation's state legislatures are in for one especially volatile election cycle as Republicans poise for gains.
July 7, 2010
2010 State Legislatures: State By State
Louis Jacobson looks ahead to see which parties are likely to control the state legislatures after this year's elections.