The 2024 election results left Democrats facing significant challenges in Washington. With Donald Trump as president and Republicans controlling both chambers of Congress, the party found its options severely limited. Senate Democrats, led by Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, opted to extend government funding in March 2025, indicating a lack of resolve in confronting the looming policy hurdles posed by the Trump administration. By fall, despite a united front against the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies, eight senators yielded to pressure, revealing a broader trend of hesitation among Democratic leadership.
In contrast, a glimmer of hope emerged from the states, particularly among Democratic governors. Once sidelined in favor of congressional candidates, governors have regained prominence as powerful players in the political landscape. Following a period where Democrats held only 16 governorships in 2018, the current count has risen to 24, positioning these state leaders as vital counterbalances to Trump’s policies.
Democratic Governors Stand Firm Against Trump’s Policies
Throughout 2025, Democratic governors demonstrated a readiness to challenge the Trump administration. They took decisive actions, including deploying the National Guard in urban areas and actively opposing Republican gerrymandering initiatives. As Trump approached the one-year mark of his second term, his approval ratings hovered around 40%, with some polls indicating numbers even lower than that. This decline marks the lowest approval for a president at this point in their term since Trump himself in 2017. Meanwhile, the Republican Congress faces an even lower approval rating of 35% according to a recent Quinnipiac University poll.
Despite the struggles of congressional Democrats, who recorded a dismal 18% approval rating in the same poll, there remains a significant desire among voters for Democratic leadership. Approximately 47% of voters expressed a wish for Democrats to regain control of the House in the upcoming November elections, compared to 43% for Republicans. While this four-point margin may seem narrow, it underscores a potential shift in voter sentiment leading into critical races.
Democratic governors have stepped in to fill the leadership void. Figures such as Gavin Newsom of California and JB Pritzker of Illinois have emerged as prominent voices opposing the administration, particularly regarding contentious immigration policies affecting cities like Los Angeles and Chicago. Their assertive rhetoric and strategic use of state powers have resonated with constituents seeking effective leadership against Trump’s agenda.
Successes and Future Ambitions
Governors like Andy Beshear of Kentucky and Laura Kelly of Kansas have also established successful approaches by focusing on local economic issues. In Maine, Governor Janet Mills garnered national attention for her bold response to Trump’s criticisms during a televised meeting, declaring, “See you in court.” Such moments have energized Democrats and Independents alike, demonstrating a commitment to challenge federal overreach.
Other governors, including Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania, Tim Walz of Minnesota, Wes Moore of Maryland, and Katie Hobbs of Arizona, have successfully managed their states while highlighting the dysfunction in Washington. Notably, the recent off-year elections showcased Democratic successes, with candidates such as Abigail Spanberger in Virginia and Mikie Sherrill in New Jersey achieving double-digit victories by emphasizing economic stability and boldly confronting Republican positions.
As the political landscape evolves, many of these governors may be positioning themselves for potential presidential runs in 2028. For the time being, they are providing a much-needed service to Americans who oppose Trump’s policies, demonstrating that there remains a belief in progressive values and a willingness to fight for them.
The leadership displayed by Democratic governors stands out as a bright spot in an otherwise challenging year for the party. Their actions may even inspire momentum within Congress, illustrating that courage and determination can indeed be contagious, especially when it comes to resisting policies that many Americans find objectionable.
