Insurance commissioner races go before voters in four states
California, Georgia, Kansas, and Oklahoma are holding direct elections for insurance commissioner in 2026. In most other states, the governor or legislature determines who fills the role. California's contest pits two Democrats against each other amid debate over wildfire insurance and premiums.
Eleven states elect insurance commissioners directly; Republicans currently hold eight of those seats and Democrats three. The other 39 commissioners are classified as nonpartisan. This year, four direct elections are taking place: California, Georgia, Kansas, and Oklahoma, where Republicans hold three offices and Democrats one. In 32 states, the office is filled indirectly, with the governor or legislature deciding.
California’s contest is the state’s first Democratic-versus-Democratic commissioner race, featuring Ben Allen and Jane Kim. Wildfire insurance and home premiums are central issues. Insurify data cited in the report show 2025 rate increases of 24% in Oklahoma, 15% in Kansas, 9% in Georgia, and 5% in California.
These down-ballot contests may affect homeowners and policyholders because commissioners oversee insurance markets and consumer protection. In states with direct elections, voters could influence how regulators approach premiums and disaster-related coverage. Indirect selection may tie commissioner priorities more closely to governors or legislatures. The outcomes may shape public confidence in insurance oversight, though broader market forces and other regulators could limit any single commissioner’s influence.