Candidates who have denied or questioned the results of the 2020 presidential election are running for governor and other significant offices in key swing states as the 2026 midterm elections approach. If elected, some of these individuals could assume critical roles in overseeing future elections, echoing a trend observed since the 2020 contest.
Following the 2020 election, Republicans who challenged its outcome have taken positions on local election boards, worked within election offices, trained poll observers, and attempted to influence state election laws. Now, their candidacies for governor in states like Arizona, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Georgia highlight a continuation of this effort.
These five states are considered crucial battlegrounds, having shifted between Republican and Democratic presidential wins in recent cycles. In four of the gubernatorial races in these states, candidates have outright denied the results of the 2020 election. While most of these candidates are currently trailing in polls, the close nature of past elections in these states means outcomes remain uncertain.
Some of these candidates have begun to moderate their stance on the 2020 election. When approached for comment, several indicated a willingness to accept the certified winner of the 2028 election. For instance, in Michigan, John James, who had previously made claims about Donald Trump winning the state multiple times, later stated that President Biden won in 2020 and that he would certify election results. However, other candidates, such as Andy Biggs in Arizona, have not offered similar assurances regarding the 2020 results or future certifications.
The rise of these candidates is seen not as a coordinated effort by the broader Republican Party, but rather as a reflection of the significant influence of election denial within the party following the 2020 election. While many candidates backed by former President Trump in the 2022 midterms who promoted election denialism lost their races, the sentiment persists.
Former President Trump's continued focus on unsubstantiated claims of fraud from the 2020 election appears to be a driving factor for his support of these candidates. His endorsement often goes to those who echo his assertions about the election's outcome, regardless of factual accuracy. While voter fraud does occur at very low levels, investigations and court cases have consistently failed to show evidence of widespread fraud that could alter election results.
The potential impact of election denialism on upcoming elections may become more pronounced in closely contested races. If races for the House, Senate, or governorship are decided by narrow margins, disputes over election results and ballot certifications could become significant factors. In cases where Democrats secure larger victory margins, these controversies may be less impactful.