Fox News Power Rankings Eye Competitive Gubernatorial Races

With the November midterm elections fast approaching, Fox News Power Rankings has released its predictions for key gubernatorial races across the country. New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Washington are among the states with the most competitive races, as candidates vie for the governor's mansions.

The Granite State is facing an open gubernatorial race with Republican Governor Chris Sununu not seeking a fifth term. Fox News Power Rankings has rated the race a "Toss-up," with former Sen. Kelly Ayotte leading the Republican field and former Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig emerging as the Democratic frontrunner. Ayotte has received Sununu's endorsement, while Craig is focusing on healthcare and families in her campaign. Democrats are optimistic about their chances due to New Hampshire's leftward trend at the presidential level, but Ayotte's strong resemblance to Sununu may keep the race tight.

Fox News Power Rankings Eye Competitive Gubernatorial Races

North Carolina has a long history of ticket-splitting in its elections. Despite Trump winning the state in 2016 and 2020, Democratic governors have held office for most of the past four decades. Fox News Power Rankings has rated the race "Lean D," with Attorney General Josh Stein representing the Democrats and Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson running for the Republicans. Stein is campaigning on a pro-business, pro-police platform with a focus on abortion rights, while Robinson is closely aligned with former President Trump, raising concerns about his divisive rhetoric and policies.

Washington voters will choose a new governor after incumbent Democratic Governor Jay Inslee announced his retirement. Fox News Power Rankings has rated the race "Likely D," with Democrat Bob Ferguson, the state's three-term attorney general, holding a clear lead. Ferguson has raised significantly more funds than Republican challenger Dave Reichert, a former congressman and sheriff. Reichert is hoping his law enforcement experience will resonate with voters amid concerns about crime, but Ferguson's campaigning on abortion and worker rights has given him a strong headstart.

Fox News Power Rankings Eye Competitive Gubernatorial Races

In addition to New Hampshire, North Carolina, and Washington, Fox News Power Rankings has identified several other states with competitive gubernatorial races. These include:

* **Georgia (Lean R)**: With popular Republican Governor Brian Kemp seeking reelection, former Democratic State Representative Stacey Abrams is mounting a serious challenge.

Fox News Power Rankings Eye Competitive Gubernatorial Races

* **Arizona (Toss-up)**: Incumbent Republican Governor Doug Ducey is term-limited, and the open race has several competitive candidates from both parties.

* **Michigan (Lean D)**: Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer is facing a rematch with Republican challenger Tudor Dixon, who narrowly lost in 2022.

Fox News Power Rankings Eye Competitive Gubernatorial Races

As the midterm elections draw closer, the gubernatorial races in New Hampshire, North Carolina, Washington, and other states are shaping up to be highly competitive. Fox News Power Rankings will continue to track these races and provide updates as the campaign intensifies.