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Catholic candidates to shape 2026 gubernatorial races in 12 states

September 22, 2026 · 1 min read

A dozen U.S. states could see Catholic governors elected in 2026, and in two states — Texas and Massachusetts — the outcome is nearly assured because both major-party nominees are Catholic.

Catholics are positioned to play a visible role in this year’s 36 gubernatorial contests, with at least 14 candidates across both parties publicly identifying as Catholic.

The number of Catholics has the potential to increase in governors’ mansions nationwide. If every Catholic candidate were to win, the number of Catholic governors would climb from 20 to 22.

Credit: Graphic by Aaron Phillips/EWTN News

About half of gubernatorial races are open races, with the incumbent either term-limited or retiring. According to The Eagleton Center on the American Governor , 20 U.S. governors publicly identify as Catholic.

In Massachusetts, Democratic Gov. Maura Healey faces Republican Michael Minogue, and in Texas, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott faces Democrat Gina Hinojosa, meaning both states have Catholic nominees from each major party.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott smiles during a press conference in Houston on March 26, 2024. | Credit: Suzanne Cordeiro/AFP via Getty Images

In a statement to…

Source: Catholic News Agency · Read the full story →

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💬 Comments (3) 🌐 Show original

Marko Kostić

It is very interesting that in Texas and Massachusetts both candidates will be Catholics, this is rarely seen. Greg Abbott has been around for a long time, and now there are also these 14 candidates by state - we will see how many of them will actually enter the governor's houses. If everyone wins, just plus two Catholics, it's not a big change.

فادي صايغ

In Texas, Greg Abbott was there a long time ago, and now Gina Hinojosa is also Catholic, which is a little strange. But what I noticed is that if all 14 candidates win, only two Catholic conservatives will increase. I mean, it's not a big change.

Sofia Thanasi

In Texas, Greg Abbott has been there for a long time and now Gina Hinojosa is also Catholic, so both sides are of the same faith. I find it interesting that out of 14 candidates, if they all win, the increase is only two additional Catholic governors. It's not a big change, but we'll see what happens in those 12 states.