Democrats Win State Trifectas and Push Popular Vote Compact
Democrats gained control of six state governments and flipped the Texas governorship, reviving efforts to replace the Electoral College with a national popular vote.
Following the midterm elections, Democrats established new trifectas—control of the governorship and both legislative chambers—in Arizona, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. In a major upset, Gina Hinojosa defeated incumbent Greg Abbott to win the Texas governorship, and the party flipped the Texas state House. These victories broke Republican supermajorities in 13 chambers and flipped 12 others, granting Democrats the power to reshape policies on abortion rights, healthcare, and housing.
This shift has revived efforts to implement the National Popular Vote Interstate Compact, which would award electoral votes to the winner of the national popular vote once 270 electoral votes are committed. Governors Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and David Crowley of Wisconsin expressed support for the move, while Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs remained noncommittal. Republican leaders and the America First Policy Institute argue the plan violates the Constitution and disenfranchises voters.
Immediate priorities for the new majorities include reducing energy costs and establishing independent redistricting commissions. In North Carolina, future House speaker Robert Reives advocated for such commissions to end legislatures drawing their own districts. Meanwhile, Governor-elect David Crowley announced plans to sign a bill redrawing Wisconsin's district lines. Republican State Leadership Committee leaders have called for a sustained commitment to regain these lost majorities.
