Deep Dive: 2026 Kansas Elections

Kansas voters face one of the most consequential elections in years. With incumbent Gov. Laura Kelly term-limited, Republicans see their best opportunity to flip the governor's office. The U.S. Senate race features a surprisingly competitive Democratic challenger. Property taxes have emerged as the defining issue across all races.

Key Races:

• Governor: Cindy Holscher (D) vs. Ty Masterson (R) — Rated Lean Republican
• U.S. Senate: Roger Marshall (R, incumbent) vs. Adam Hamilton (D) — Rated Likely Republican
• Attorney General: Kris Kobach (R, incumbent) vs. Chris Mann (D)

Key Issues: Property taxes, abortion rights, economy/inflation, education, rural vs. urban divide.

Political Context: Trump won Kansas 57.2% to 41.0% in 2024. Kelly won the 2022 gubernatorial race by 2.2 points. Republicans expanded their veto-proof legislative majority in 2024.

Bottom Line: The gubernatorial race is the true battleground. If Democrats can hold the governor's office, it signals Kansas is competitive. If Republicans flip it, they complete a trifecta that will shape Kansas policy for years.