Following a disappointing election cycle where Democrats lost the White House, Senate majority, and failed to gain control of the House, the nation's Democratic governors are asserting their relevance. Meeting for their annual winter gathering, these governors are portraying themselves as the "best path forward" for the party and a crucial "last line of defense" against the incoming Trump administration.

Despite federal losses, Democrats maintained their hold on gubernatorial offices, currently occupying 23 of the 50 positions. The Democratic Governors Association (DGA) emphasizes that these governors represent over half of the US population, including residents in key presidential battleground states like Arizona, Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, as well as traditionally Republican states like Kansas and Kentucky.

California Governor Gavin Newsom speaking at a press conference. (Jason Armond/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)

The DGA emphasizes the importance of governors, particularly in light of Republican control at the federal level. They highlight the significant role governors play in addressing everyday challenges and stress the increasing importance of gubernatorial elections in 2025 and 2026, including efforts to win back Virginia and retain New Jersey.

During Trump's previous term, Democratic governors and state attorneys general actively opposed many of his policies through political and legal means. Several governors are prepared to resume this role, with high-profile figures like California's Gavin Newsom and Illinois' JB Pritzker already taking steps to protect their states against anticipated Trump administration policies.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker during an interview. (Fox News - Paul Steinhauser)

Pritzker and Colorado Governor Jared Polis recently launched the "Governors Safeguarding Democracy" group, specifically aimed at resisting the incoming Trump administration. This move has drawn criticism from the Republican Governors Association, who argue that the Democrats are out of touch with the American public.

Conversely, Democratic strategist Maria Cardona views Democratic governors as symbols of progress and protection against what she terms "MAGA extremism," while also offering a path forward through bipartisan solutions. She emphasizes the importance of their experienced and pragmatic leadership in the current political climate.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer campaigning. (Fox News - Paul Steinhauser)

Looking ahead to the 2028 presidential election, several of these governors, including Newsom, Pritzker, Polis, Michigan's Gretchen Whitmer, Pennsylvania's Josh Shapiro, Maryland's Wes Moore, and Kentucky's Andy Beshear, are already being discussed as potential contenders for the Democratic nomination.