Catholic candidates to shape 2026 gubernatorial races in 12 states

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.

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.

In a statement to EWTN News, Abbott, first elected governor in 2014, said: “My Catholic faith is integral to my work as Governor, especially the protection of life from the youngest to the oldest members of the Texas family. Specifically, Jesus and His Church’s teachings on abortion, euthanasia, justice for victims, and the dignity of workers inform every decision I make from the Governor’s desk. As Governor, I will continue to keep Texas the shining city on the hill for the rest of the world as we prioritize uniting all of Godʼs children in love of neighbor.”

Meanwhile Hinojosa, who has served in the Texas House since her election in 2016, told EWTN News: “My faith is my moral compass. It grounds me in purpose and gives me the courage to do what is right regardless of obstacles or consequences.”

Several other gubernatorial candidates also shared with EWTN News how their Catholic faith either shapes or would shape their approach to governing.

Gov. Jim Pillen, R-Nebraska, who faces Democratic former state senator Lynne Walz in the November election, said: “My Catholic faith is the foundation of who I am and how I serve. I begin each day praying to do God’s will. As Governor, my faith shapes my commitment to protecting life, serving others with humility, respecting human dignity, and working to build safer, stronger communities.”

In Connecticut, Republican Ryan Fazio, facing Democratic incumbent Gov. Ned Lamont, said: “I am a Catholic who believes in Jesus Christ and a responsibility to glorify God and act in a morally upright way in the world to save our own souls and help others. As governor, I would carry the same ethos that our faith teaches us to serve others in a righteous way. Those in leadership must serve humbly and always reject the temptations of power.”

Meanwhile in Idaho, Democrat Terri Pickens Manweiler is challenging Republican Gov. Brad Little. She said: “I am a non-practicing Roman Catholic. My faith governs my personal actions and beliefs. I firmly believe in the separation of church and state. I would not impose my beliefs onto others, especially through the political process or governance.”