Democrats Expand Control in Key State Supreme Court Races

Democratic-backed candidates secured victories in Michigan and Kentucky, while Republicans maintained their majority in Ohio and are leading in North Carolina.

Overview

In Michigan, Democrats increased their majority on the state Supreme Court to 5-2 with wins by Kyra Harris Bolden and Kimberly Ann Thomas.
Kentucky saw a historic win as Pamela Goodwine became the first Black woman elected to its Supreme Court, backed by Democratic support.
Republicans held their majority in Ohio's Supreme Court, expanding it to a 5-2 advantage despite a campaign focused on abortion rights by Democrats.
The North Carolina Supreme Court race is headed for a recount, with Republican Jefferson Griffin narrowly leading Democratic Justice Allison Riggs.
Abortion rights were a significant issue in these elections, with mixed results in ballot measures across several states.