WASHINGTON, D.C. –– The Republican Lieutenant Governors Association (RLGA), a caucus of the Republican State Leadership Committee, today announced its 2026 Executive Committee as Republicans prepare for one of the most competitive lieutenant governor election cycles in the country, with 31 races on the ballot in 2026, including 21 ticketed races and 10 independent contests. Of those races, 16 are currently held by Republicans and 14 by Democrats, with 10 open seats presenting major pickup opportunities as Republicans look to build on recent momentum.
The announcement follows a strong track record for Republicans in lieutenant governor races, including winning six of the nine contests in the 2024 cycle and holding 24 of the nation’s 45 lieutenant governor offices. In recent off-year elections, the RSLC and RLGA also went undefeated in protecting incumbent Republican lieutenant governors, with multiple incumbents finishing as the highest vote-getters on the ballot in their respective states, including Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and Mississippi Lieutenant Governor Delbert Hosemann.
“Nevada knows firsthand how competitive statewide races have become, and 2026 will be no different. Lieutenant governor races will be some of the most consequential contests on the ballot,” said Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony, Chair of the RLGA. “With more than 30 races, a significant number of open seats, and narrow partisan margins, Republicans have a clear opportunity to not only defend our incumbents but expand our footprint nationwide. The RLGA’s 2026 Executive Committee is focused on building strong candidates, disciplined messaging, and winning where it matters most.”
“Oklahoma has shown that disciplined investment and early engagement win elections,” said Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell, Vice Chair of the RLGA. “With 31 races on the map and several states up for grabs, Republicans are entering this cycle with momentum, strong incumbents, and a clear contrast with Democrats’ failed policies. The RLGA is ready to go on offense.”
“In Nebraska you win by making the case to voters on the facts—and doing the work it takes to earn trust,” said Nebraska Lieutenant Governor Joe Kelly, Finance Chair of the RLGA. “With 10 open seats and a closely divided national map, 2026 is a true opportunity year for Republicans. The difference between winning and losing in these races will come down to preparation, early messaging, and making smart, targeted investments. As Finance Chair, I’m committed to raising resources so RLGA can continue fighting strategically and win across the country.”
Republican Lieutenant Governors Association Executive Committee
ABOUT RLGA
One of four caucuses under RSLC’s leadership, the Republican Lieutenant Governors Association (RLGA) is the only national organization dedicated to electing Republicans to the offices of lieutenant governor. Across the country, lieutenant governors serve as a state’s second-in-command, performing critical tasks such as overseeing small business recruitment, leading economic development, administering fair elections, maintaining homeland security, and managing disaster recovery. These experiences often prepare our lieutenant governors for higher office, as 10 out of 27 Republican governors previously served as lieutenant governors.
ABOUT RSLC
The Republican State Leadership Committee (RSLC) is the largest organization of Republican state leaders in the country and only national committee whose mission is to recruit, train, and elect Republicans to multiple down-ballot, state-level offices. Thanks to the RSLC’s growing network of grassroots supporters in all 50 states, the committee helps deliver wins for Republican state legislators, lieutenant governors, secretaries of state, agriculture officials, and state judges across the country.
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