Open state executive seats reach highest count since 2018
In the 2026 elections, 118 of 296 state executive offices are open because no incumbent is running, the largest number since Ballotpedia began collecting the data in 2018. Term limits account for 57 of those open offices. The newsletter also says 267 of 287 general elections are contested and notes upcoming Utah election changes and write-in filing deadlines.
In 2026, 118 of 296 state executive offices have no incumbent running, the most since Ballotpedia began tracking in 2018. Term limits account for 57 openings, the largest such total and highest even-year share since 2018. Still, the open-seat percentage is 39.8%, below 2024's 43.7%.
Of 287 general elections, 267 are contested. Utah will hold its first elections under a proof-of-citizenship registration requirement for state and local races, and seven statewide write-in filing deadlines occur in the next two weeks.
With many executive seats open, voters in those states may face less familiar candidates and fewer incumbency cues, potentially increasing the weight of primaries and campaign messaging. Term-limited turnover could bring new leadership priorities to agencies, while Utah's registration rule and approaching write-in deadlines may affect ballot access and participation for some voters and candidates.