The class of 2018 House Democrats arrived in Washington riding a wave of anti-Trump energy, determined to keep the former president in check. Now, as the political landscape shifts, some of these members are taking their fight to the state level, believing that the most crucial battles against Donald Trump’s policies will be fought in governors' mansions rather than in Congress.
Among those stepping up are Rep. Mikie Sherrill from New Jersey, former Rep. Abigail Spanberger from Virginia, and former Interior Secretary Deb Haaland from New Mexico. These Democratic women are making the case that, as governors, they would be in a prime position to counteract Trump’s agenda—an agenda they argue is dismantling essential protections, escalating economic instability, and failing to deliver on promises such as reducing costs for everyday Americans.
Why the State Level Matters
"The reality is that state government is going to be the tip of the spear in protecting people," said former Democratic Rep. Katie Porter, another 2018 member contemplating a gubernatorial bid in California—provided Vice President Kamala Harris doesn’t enter the race.
Porter emphasized that maintaining continuity in healthcare and consumer protections is critical as Trump’s policies continue to unravel such safeguards. "That’s why you’re seeing these bright, dynamic leaders like Deb, Abigail, and Mikie considering gubernatorial races."
Democrats, now in the minority in Washington, are revamping their messaging strategy after Republicans gained ground in the last election cycle. They are increasingly looking to state leadership to resist Trump’s influence, just as attorneys general across the country have done by launching legal challenges to his executive orders.
Can the 2018 Playbook Work Again?
New Jersey and Virginia, both holding gubernatorial elections this year, will serve as early tests for whether an anti-Trump message can still mobilize voters. "The 2018 playbook remains very much in effect," said Dan Sena, the former executive director of House Democrats’ campaign committee. His firm is backing an independent expenditure committee in support of Sherrill.
Sena added, "Trump’s approval ratings are slipping, and Americans are beginning to see cracks in his agenda. The public’s patience is running thin."
Women Taking the Lead
Historically, men have dominated the governor's office, but in recent years, more women have stepped into leadership roles. The number of female governors peaked last year with Republican Kelly Ayotte’s victory in New Hampshire, bringing the total to over a dozen.
While both parties have made efforts to recruit more women, the gender gap remains significant. Currently, eight Democratic women serve as governors, compared to four Republican women. The upcoming elections could be groundbreaking—if Spanberger wins in Virginia, she would be the state’s first female governor. Meanwhile, Sherrill could become only the second woman ever elected governor of New Jersey.
"We’ve been underrepresented for far too long," said Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healy, the first woman elected governor in her state and head of the Democratic Governors Association’s Women Governors Fund. "Women need to be in leadership positions. We bring different perspectives and solutions to the table."
The High Stakes for Virginia and New Mexico
Virginia, home to nearly 150,000 federal workers, is particularly vulnerable to Trump’s cuts to government agencies. Spanberger has already voiced concerns about the economic fallout from a proposed 10% reduction in the federal workforce—a move spearheaded by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency.
"Every choice he makes is hurting Virginians," Spanberger said. "His policies are creating chaos in our economy, and people are worried."
In New Mexico, Haaland launched her campaign early, looking to succeed Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. She has highlighted the Trump administration’s impact on her state, pointing to incidents where Native Americans were questioned about their citizenship by federal immigration officers.
"People are scared," Haaland said. "They’re worried about the rising cost of living, public safety, and housing affordability. Governors will be the first line of defense against the cruel and chaotic policies coming out of the White House."
More Than Just Anti-Trump
While opposing Trump remains a key theme, Sherrill argues that Democrats must present a proactive vision for the future. She learned this firsthand when she won a red-leaning district in 2018 by focusing on solutions, not just opposition.
"This is our chance to chart a path forward," Sherrill said. "We need to show people how we’ll lower costs, protect jobs, and deliver real opportunities for their kids. It’s about action, not just resistance."
The "Whisper Network" and Women’s Political Rise
The growing presence of women in politics can be partly credited to informal networks encouraging more women to run. Porter, for example, was urged to enter politics by Sen. Elizabeth Warren after the 2016 election changed her plans.
Porter, a former law professor, had been working on bank settlements following the foreclosure crisis when Kamala Harris, then California’s attorney general, tapped her as an expert.
"At the time, I wanted to help struggling homeowners," Porter recalled. "But Trump’s election made me realize I had to do more. Warren pushed me to run for office, and now, I’m considering the next step."
However, Harris herself may enter California’s gubernatorial race, which could reshuffle the playing field. Porter has hinted that she, along with other top Democrats, would step aside if Harris runs.
The Road Ahead
As these Democratic women prepare their gubernatorial campaigns, they are betting that voters want more than just an opposition party. They want leaders who will fight for economic stability, consumer protections, and a government that works for the people.
With Trump’s approval ratings fluctuating and the political landscape shifting, these races could determine not only the future of Democratic leadership but also the trajectory of the party’s strategy in the post-Trump era.
The battle is no longer just in Washington—it’s moving to the states, and these women are ready to lead the charge.
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