Thirty-six states will elect governors in 2026, and Republicans enter those races clinging to a narrow 26-24 edge after Democrats had a strong showing in 2025, flipping Virginia and defending New Jersey.

Mid-January marks the start of the legislative season, with the 30-day finance-focused session set to begin Jan. 20. Lawmakers and lobbyists will descend on the capital city to build the budget. But crucial election deadlines sit just around the corner.

Republican Jim Ellison launches his 2026 New Mexico governor campaign, warning electric rates could double under policies mirroring California's approach.

NM Forward leaders said the party collected the more than 3,500 signatures needed to qualify for the ballot since launching in New Mexico.