Only three states—Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi—are holding elections for governor in 2019. In 2018, elections for governor were held in 36 states. Republicans won 20 of the 36 seats up for election, and Democrats won the other 16. Out of all the state executive offices, only the governor is elected in all 50 states. The last gubernatorial elections in Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi were held in 2015.

 

In Kentucky, Republican Gov. Matt Bevin is running for re-election to a second term. He announced on January 25 that his lieutenant gubernatorial running mate in the 2019 election would be state Sen. Ralph Alvarado instead of his current lieutenant governor, Jenean Hampton. The candidate filing deadline is January 29, the primary is on May 21, and the general election is on November 5.

 

In Louisiana, Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards is also up for re-election to his second term. He announced on January 22 that he would file for re-election. The candidate filing deadline is August 8, the primary is on October 12, and the general election is on November 16.

 

In Mississippi, Republican Gov. Phil Bryant is prevented by term limits from seeking re-election, which leaves the seat open to a newcomer. The candidate filing deadline is March 1, the primary is on August 6, and the general election is on November 5.