WASHINGTON (AP) — Following a year marked by an expansion of executive power under Donald Trump, pivotal state and local elections are underway. Voters in Virginia, New Jersey, and New York City are about to express their views on Trump’s second-term agenda, especially in key governor and mayoral races. Trump is directly involved, hosting rallies for candidates he supports, thereby intensifying the climate surrounding these elections.
In Virginia, the governor's race between Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and Democrat Abigail Spanberger will be closely analyzed for its reflection on Trump's popularity. In New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli are vying to succeed term-limited Governor Phil Murphy, with tensions running high as Ciattarelli seeks to capitalize on Trump's backing.
Meanwhile, in New York City, young progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani faces off against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who shifted to an independent run after losing the primary. Their race has been pivotal in mobilizing younger voters, showcasing a spectrum of political philosophies within the Democratic Party.
Additionally, Californians will vote on Proposition 50, aimed at drawing new congressional district lines potentially benefiting Democrats in upcoming elections. This year's state-level contests are crucial, as voters will send strong signals about the political climate ahead of the 2026 midterms, which could further reshape the power dynamics in the U.S.
In Virginia, the governor's race between Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears and Democrat Abigail Spanberger will be closely analyzed for its reflection on Trump's popularity. In New Jersey, Democrat Mikie Sherrill and Republican Jack Ciattarelli are vying to succeed term-limited Governor Phil Murphy, with tensions running high as Ciattarelli seeks to capitalize on Trump's backing.
Meanwhile, in New York City, young progressive candidate Zohran Mamdani faces off against former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who shifted to an independent run after losing the primary. Their race has been pivotal in mobilizing younger voters, showcasing a spectrum of political philosophies within the Democratic Party.
Additionally, Californians will vote on Proposition 50, aimed at drawing new congressional district lines potentially benefiting Democrats in upcoming elections. This year's state-level contests are crucial, as voters will send strong signals about the political climate ahead of the 2026 midterms, which could further reshape the power dynamics in the U.S.
