Kansas Republicans Suffer Another Gubernatorial Defeat Despite Trump's Endorsement
Andrew Powell · Nov 13, 2026 · 2 min read
Democrat Cindy Holscher has won the Kansas governor's race, defeating Republican state Senate President Ty Masterson in a contest that keeps the state's top office under Democratic control for another four years.
The Associated Press projected Holscher as the winner in the race to replace Gov. Laura Kelly, who was term-limited, according to Fox News.
Her victory gives Democrats their third straight win in a Kansas gubernatorial election, following Kelly's victories in 2018 and 2022.
The outcome stands out in a state that has consistently favored Republicans in presidential elections. Kansas has voted for the GOP presidential candidate in every election since 1968, yet Democrats have maintained their hold on the governor's mansion through three consecutive contests.
Holscher has served in the Kansas Senate since 2021 after spending four years in the state House. She secured the Democratic nomination in August by defeating fellow state Sen. Ethan Corson, who had received endorsements from Kelly and former Democratic Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.
Her campaign also faced controversy over social media posts from 2023 that resurfaced during the race. In the posts, Holscher suggested Jesus Christ could have been transgender while commenting on a debate over proposed legislation restricting drag performances in front of children.
Following the projected victory, Holscher thanked voters in a post on X and celebrated her opportunity to lead the state.
"Thank you, Kansas! It’s the honor of a lifetime to serve as your next Governor," she wrote.
Masterson acknowledged the loss in his own post, saying he had called Holscher to congratulate her. President Donald Trump had endorsed Masterson during the crowded Republican primary.
"It looks like we will come up just short, but the things we fought for are no less important today than they were yesterday," Masterson wrote.
Masterson has led the Kansas Senate since 2021 and said he plans to return to the chamber in January. He pointed to property taxes, public safety, affordability and education as issues he intends to prioritize.
While Republicans retain control of the state Legislature, Holscher's victory ensures Democrats will continue leading the governor's office after Kelly's departure.