2026 Secretary of State Results Reshape Election Oversight Ahead of 2028

On Election Day 2026, voters in 24 states chose the officials who will run their elections in 2028 and beyond. With two races still uncalled, three states have flipped party control, and 13 new officeholders are poised to replace incumbents or retiring officials. In just one state, Nebraska, did a candidate considered to be an “election denier” win.

Changes in Party Control and the 2028 Battleground States

Heading into the 2028 presidential race, five of seven battleground states will have Democrats or officials appointed by Democrats in the top state election position.

Democrats retained control of the secretary of state's office in Arizona, Michigan, and Nevada, while flipping Georgia. In Pennsylvania, the Democratic governor appoints the secretary of state. In the other two battleground states, North Carolina and Wisconsin, elections are managed by bipartisan boards and a board-appointed election director.

Though not traditionally considered a battleground state, Texas also changed columns, with a Democratic governor now in position to appoint the secretary of state.

Two Races Remain Uncalled

In Alaska, a nonpartisan candidate running for lieutenant governor on the Democratic ticket is currently leading. Alaska's lieutenant governor serves as chief election official.

In Kansas, the race for secretary of state remains uncalled, with the Republican candidate leading.

Election Denial Candidates

Heading into Tuesday's election, candidates who had supported election denial conspiracy theories were on the ballot in five states. Just one won: Scott Petersen in Nebraska.

These officials will oversee voting procedures, counting, certification, and other critical election processes in the years ahead.