Twenty-five women are major-party nominees in the 36 governor’s races on the ballot this year. Several have opportunities to notch historic wins for women and LGBTQ+ people — and all are running to shape state policy on abortion access, election administration, gun violence, public safety and other issues. Just 45 women have served as governor in American history, and only nine women have served in the role at the same time. Nineteen states have still never had a woman governor — a number that may soon change with women seeking the top post in at least four states that are on that list. Two women gubernatorial candidates, if elected, could become the first out lesbian governors in U.S. history. Several Black women are also running for governor, though Democrat Stacey Abrams’ bid in Georgia is considered the most competitive, according to fundraising and polling. The country has never elected a Black woman governor. In several races, women are running against other women. And women are running for governor and lieutenant governor in at least four states. If any win, it would be a historic first. Head to the 🔗in our bio to see all of the races we’re watching.