New Hampshire voters are casting ballots today in the 2026 gubernatorial election, with Republican Gov. Kelly Ayotte seeking a second term against Democratic challenger Cinde Warmington. Polls close at 7 and 8 p.m. EST, and live results are available below via Decision Desk HQ.
Ayotte, a former U.S. senator, is aiming to extend her hold on the corner office in Concord. Warmington, a former executive councilor, is looking to flip the seat for Democrats after losing her party's gubernatorial primary in 2024.
Ayotte's Record and Re-election Bid
Since taking office, Ayotte has focused on tax policy, education, and public safety. She has touted the state's low unemployment rate and resisted broad new spending initiatives. Her campaign has emphasized her experience in Washington and her ability to work with the legislature.
Republicans see New Hampshire as a key firewall in New England, where the GOP has lost ground in recent cycles. Ayotte's victory would be a bright spot for the party, which is also watching tight races in Maine's Senate contest and Maryland's governor's race.
Warmington's Challenge
Warmington has positioned herself as a progressive alternative, hammering Ayotte on abortion rights, climate policy, and what she calls a failure to address rising property taxes. She has tried to nationalize the race, linking Ayotte to former President Donald Trump and national Republicans.
Democrats hope that dissatisfaction with the GOP's handling of the economy—highlighted by record gas prices on Election Day—will boost turnout in the Granite State.
What to Watch
Turnout in the state's populous southern tier, including Hillsborough and Rockingham counties, will be critical. Ayotte must run up margins in the more conservative north and west, while Warmington needs a strong showing in Manchester, Nashua, and the Seacoast.
Polls close at 7 p.m. EST in most of the state, with a handful of towns closing at 8 p.m. Results will begin to flow shortly after, and Decision Desk HQ will provide live updates.
Elsewhere, voters are also deciding Oregon's governor's race and a South Carolina governor's race, among other contests. Stay with The World Signal for the latest.
