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Democratic Governors Unite Around Affordability Playbook for 2026 Under New DGA Chair Beshear

The Arizona summit signaled a coordinated push on cost-of-living issues across 36 governor races next year.

FILE - Newly inaugurated Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek unveils her first budget proposal as governor at the State Library of Oregon in Salem on Jan. 31, 2023. (AP Photo/Claire Rush, File)
FILE - Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear waves to a cheering crowd after his speech during the Ben Nelson Gala Nov. 7, 2025, in Omaha, Neb. (AP Photo/Rebecca S. Gratz, File)
FILE - Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms speaks during a campaign stop in her 2026 Democratic bid for governor on Nov. 17, 2025 in Columbus, Ga. (AP Photo/Jeff Amy, File)
FILE - Texas state Rep Gina Hinojosa speaks during a rally to protest against redistricting hearings at the Texas Capitol, July 24, 2025, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay, File)

Overview

  • At a weekend meeting in Phoenix, governors agreed to center campaigns on cutting everyday costs, highlighting housing, child care, utilities and groceries.
  • Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear took over as Democratic Governors Association chair, tapped Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer as vice chair, and emphasized tighter coordination with state-level campaign groups.
  • Building on recent wins in New Jersey and Virginia, Beshear said Democrats will target flips in Iowa, Georgia and Nevada as part of the expansive 2026 map.
  • The White House has refocused on affordability, with President Trump scheduled to visit Pennsylvania on Tuesday to promote inflation efforts after tariff reductions on beef and other consumer goods.
  • Federal–state friction remains high, with National Guard deployments in California, Oregon and Illinois, voter-data demands and aid threats, as Democrats say their message must be matched by tangible cost relief.