"The prospects for state-level climate and energy legislation could hinge on the outcomes of just a few races."
"Democrats are poised to achieve trifectas—control of the governor’s office and both legislative chambers—in at least three states in this year’s midterm elections, and maybe even more.
This matters because states play an outsize role in climate and energy policy. And when Democrats control state government, they often take substantial action.
This isn’t a partisan statement. It reflects recent history in Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, New Mexico and Virginia, which passed climate and energy legislation after Democrats gained control. The states now have laws designed to cut carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy.
Each state has its own story, and I spoke this week with people monitoring the races."
Dan Gearino reports for Inside Climate News September 17, 2026.
